Barcelona Hoping To Land This Arsenal Centre-Forward On Loan: Decent Option For Xavi? | OneFootball

In a recent report, The Athletic (subscription required) mentioned that Barcelona are hoping to land Arsenal centre-forward Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang on loan this month. It has been revealed that both Barca and Juventus are showing interest in recruiting the Gabon international on loan during this winter transfer window.

Aubameyang’s Fall From Grace At The Emirates Stadium This Season

Aubameyang made a decent start to the campaign but has since fallen out of favour at the North London club due to his disciplinary problems. The 32-year-old has participated in 15 matches for the Gunners this season, netting seven goals and providing two assists across all competitions.

The experienced forward has struggled to find consistency at times with his performances during this campaign based on his average of 2.5 shots, 0.6 key passes and 0.1 dribbles per game in the Premier League. He has also been a bit inaccurate at times when linking up play with his teammates in the final third based on his pass completion rate of 70.1% in the English first division (stats via whoscored).

MANCHESTER, ENGLAND – DECEMBER 02: Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang of Arsenal wears an armband to show support for the Rainbow Laces campaign during the Premier League match between Manchester United and Arsenal at Old Trafford on December 02, 2021 in Manchester, England. (Photo by Shaun Botterill/Getty Images)

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Is Aubameyang A Decent Option For Barcelona?

Aubameyang has got a wealth of experience of playing at the highest level and still knows how to find the back of the net. He remains a natural finisher in the final third and can even be quite clever with his movements in the attacking end of the field. Aubameyang is primarily a striker but can also fill in as a winger on either flank if required. He is also a decent header of the ball but can sometimes throw away possession cheaply in the opponent’s half.

The Gabon international’s recent conduct has left a lot to be desired as well. Still, Barcelona could benefit from signing a proven goal-getter like Aubameyang on loan as he will add some much-needed firepower to Xavi‘s attack.

At 32, the Gunners outcast might still have a few good years left in him and could help the Catalan club fight for a top-four place in La Liga this season. Hence, Aubameyang will be a decent loan option for Barca to consider before the transfer window slams shut next week.