Barcelona identify Aubameyang as Vitor Roque alternative | OneFootball

Barcelona are eyeing up a move for out-of-favour Chelsea striker Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang if they fail to land top target Vitor Roque, according to Mundo Deportivo.

The Catalan giants are looking to reinforce their squad in the summer transfer market, and a new striker is on their shopping list.

Robert Lewandowski is the only recognised striker in Xavi Hernandez’s side, and the 34-year-old has done a stellar job holding down the fort with 15 league goals in 22 outings.

Ansumane Fati and Ferran Torres can slot into the false nine role in the Pole’s absence, but the club want a new striker to support the former Bayern Munich star.

Athletico Paranaense striker Roque is top of Barca’s wanted list, but is valued at around €30 million and could prove too expensive for the Spanish giants.

The 18-year-old has already revealed a desire to play at the Spotify Camp Nou, but Barca need to sell players this summer before bringing in reinforcements.

The club have now identified former striker Aubameyang who has endured a torrid time at Stamford Bridge, as a possible alternative.

The 33-year-old forward has only started in four of his 12 appearances for the Blues, having fallen behind Kai Havertz and Joao Felix in the pecking order.

Aubameyang’s contract with Chelsea runs until 2024, but a summer move seems the more likely option, with Chelsea plotting a squad clearout at the end of the season.

The Gabonese striker, who spent six months at Camp Nou after joining from Arsenal on a free transfer, could return for a second spell as he represents a cheaper alternative striking option.

Barca are in a pickle with their economic situation. The Blaugranas have been informed by La Liga that they are required to shed €200m from their enormous wage bill if they are to make any signings next summer.

The club’s top priority is finding a way to register Gavi, Ronald Araujo, Sergi Roberto and Marcos Alonso, who have already signed new deals but are yet to be registered due to La Liga restrictions.