Well, after a week of talks, and to be honest, half-hearted attempts by Arsenal to sign Aubameyang, there is a glimmer of hope that the deal could still be finalised.
It depends on who wants it to happen more – Arsenal or Dortmund. According to The Express, Borrussia Dortmund sporting director, Michael Zorc claimed that they will sell Aubameyang to Arsenal if the right offer comes in.
Zorc told Sky Sports Germany(link in German):
“Either our demands are met, then there may still be a transfer.
“But if they are not fulfilled then Auba plays until the summer in Dortmund. Arsenal has started several attempts that we declined, so I can not say how it will end at the moment.”
Wise words? Or does Zorc know that Aubameyang will remain at Dortmund until the summer? The latter seems the obvious answer. He’s a businessman and dealing with Arsenal this month may not be good business.
To be honest, this transfer saga is getting painful, Aubameyang wants to come to Arsenal and the frustration is growing, for all concerned.
Why can’t the North London club pay and seal the deal? This is a case of deja-vu again, cast your minds back to Lemar in the summer. The Gunners agreed on a fee but time ran out to sign him. Now he is totally priced out of the market and prefers Spain.
Aubameyang hasn’t kicked a ball in anger since mid-December, he’s staying fit through training but the only fitness in football is match fitness. A striker needs that edge to deliver, lose it and it takes weeks to recover.
Arsenal could end up with a striker lacking timing in front of goal. One step forward, two steps back. That seems to be Arsenals trait of late.
The Gunners know the price tag, £60 million, just pay it. If you go to a shop and make an offer for something that is less than it’s advertised at, then your going to leave that shop empty-handed.
Whoever does Arsenal’s transfer negotiations needs to wise up. If they want a player then pay the asking price. This isn’t a Turkish Bazaar. There is no haggling involved. Arsenal were quick enough to say Sanchez doesn’t leave if we don’t get the deal we want. It appears they don’t practice what they preach. Football is a business, don’t treat it any other way.
