
3. Contract priorities elsewhere
Gifting Aubameyang the blockbuster contract extension that would see him stay at the Emirates Stadium for another few years would be amazing, wouldn’t it? Of course it would. However, given the times and the economic crisis that football is enduring, it’s not realistic.
However, contract settlements elsewhere ARE realistic. For example, Bukayo Saka is running out of contract at the same date as Aubameyang. The young Englishman who can play in a variety of different positions is key to the future of Arsenal and Arteta will want to keep him under his wing for as long as possible.
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That said, sorting out the future of Aubameyang this summer, even if it does mean selling him, would allow the Gunners a whole season to focus on extending the contract of Saka. Whatever he asks for, the club simply must pay. I think most fans would agree that losing Saka for free would be just as, if not more heartbreaking than losing the likes of Alexis Sanchez and Aaron Ramsey.
Saka is an exceptional player and having proved in his recent match against Brighton and Hove Albion that he can play as a midfielder too, there really is no limit to his qualities. He is becoming a real fan favourite, no matter which position he plays in.
This is why losing Aubameyang wouldn’t be too bad, if it means maintaining the longevity of Saka at the Emirates Stadium.
Do you think Arsenal will lose Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang this summer?