How Juventus could end Chelsea's hopes of Aubameyang transfer

Cameron Smith

• Updated: 9 Aug 2022 17:09 BST
• 3 min read

Chelsea's chances of signing Barcelona forward Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang have been dealt a major blow, with a move now looking unlikely.

The Gabonese striker joined the Blaugrana back in January following his Arsenal exit and has been linked with a sensational return to the Premier League and to London.

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The Telegraph have reported that Thomas Tuchel is open to the idea of signing Aubameyang this summer as he looks to bolster his forward line with Timo Werner set to re-join RB Leipzig.

The pair worked together at Borussia Dortmund, and it's been reported that Chelsea are exploring the possibility of signing the former Arsenal man.

However, their hopes of achieving this have been dented by news that Juventus are looking at signing fellow Barcelona forward Memphis Depay. The Dutch international only joined the Camp Nou side last summer, but was unfancied by Xavi and is set to be offloaded this window.

Reports have suggested that Barcelona are only willing to let one of Depay or Aubameyang to leave this summer, in order to keep depth available in their attack. With Aubameyang thriving under Xavi last season, it seems more likely to be Depay who leaves, especially as Juventus are heavily interested.

The Turin side are looking for attacking reinforcements, and according to Goal Italia, Depay is being looked at. The former Lyon star is being seriously considered by The Bianconeri, and talks have reportedly progressed well, with Juventus now ready to push hard to get a done over the line.

With Depay likely to move on, it means Aubameyang is likely to stay put, leaving Chelsea's hopes of signing him very low.

New shirt number

In addition to the Depay news, Aubameyang has also been handed a new shirt number for the upcoming season, suggesting an exit isn't on the cards.

The Gabon international will wear the number 11 shirt this campaign after donning the 25 shirt during last season.