Marseille manager gives green light to sign £160k p/w Chelsea flop

Marseille has set their sights on Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang as a potential signing. The renowned French club is actively pursuing the former Arsenal star, and they have received encouragement from the possibility that the troubled Chelsea player intends to remain in Europe.

Reports from L’Equipe and Spanish media outlet Relevo indicate that Olympique de Marseille has shown interest in Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang. The potential signing has received approval from OM’s manager, Marcelino Garcia, who values the Gabonese player’s versatility, capable of performing in central positions as well as on the wings, along with his extensive experience at the highest level.

Aubameyang has engaged in discussions with Chelsea regarding a possible summer transfer, and according to Sky Sports, Marseille has expressed definite interest in acquiring his services. The Ligue 1 club is anticipated to initiate formal negotiations to secure the former Gabon international, although it remains uncertain whether a loan or a permanent transfer will be pursued, considering Aubameyang’s contract has just one year remaining.

Chelsea are trying to offload Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang this summer

The ongoing Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang situation remains unresolved, with CFC struggling to find a resolution for the striker’s future. Following his arrival last season under Thomas Tuchel’s management, the Gabonese star faced the departure of the German coach within a short period. Following Tuchel’s exit, the forward failed to recapture his previous prolific form for the West London club, managing only three goals throughout the season. Consequently, he was left out of the Champions League squad, indicating the club’s intention to offload him.

Chelsea is expected to demonstrate a keenness to initiate negotiations and may even offer Marseille the opportunity to sign Aubameyang at a reduced price. However, concerns arise regarding whether the European club can afford his wages, as it would likely require the striker to accept a substantial pay cut.

Coincidentally, similar to his move to Arsenal in 2018, Aubameyang could potentially fill the void left by Alexis Sanchez in the Marseille squad. The departure of the Chilean player upon the expiration of his contract creates an opening for the Gabonese striker to serve as a viable alternative. The question remains whether a transfer to Marseille will materialize. The Blues appears eager to offload the striker as soon as possible, as they are keen on reducing their wage bill and would likely be content if they could receive some financial compensation in exchange for Aubameyang.

However, OM will encounter several hurdles before being able to secure the signing of the Gabonese striker. Firstly, there is the issue of his salary. Aubameyang has attracted interest from Saudi Arabia, where he may be offered a salary comparable to that of Chelsea, which OM cannot match.

As mentioned earlier, OM will face competition for Aubameyang’s signature, but they do have the advantage of being motivated to finalize the deal swiftly, which could align with Chelsea’s intentions. The key factor lies in how Pablo Longoria, the Marseille president, will navigate the situation and present a concrete and feasible proposal to bring Aubameyang to OM.

Due to the uncertainty surrounding his Chelsea future, the former Barcelona player will not accompany the squad on their preseason tour in the U.S.