How long will Aubameyang be out with fractured jaw?
Suraj Radia
- 1 Sept 2022 07:00 BST
- 5 min read
Chelsea's pursuit of Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang could take another twist after the forward suffered a broken jaw during a home invasion.
The Blues have been in negotiations with Barcelona to sign the striker before the transfer deadline but Aubameyang's injury could change the structure of the deal, with a loan now being discussed.
Reports have claimed that Aubameyang was hit with the barrel of a shotgun during the traumatic robbery and the 33-year-old will now likely miss the whole month of September with a fractured jaw.
The length of the lay-off will likely be determined by whether Aubameyang will undergo surgery, with that option thought to offer a quicker return than healing naturally.
Talks are expected to continue into deadline day and a deal is expected to be struck despite personal terms having yet to be agreed.
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What is the state of play for Aubameyang?
Chelsea's latest offer was believed to be around €15 million plus Marcos Alonso but Barcelona have reportedly rejected the offer.
The length of Aubameyang's contract appears to be a sticking point for Chelsea but there is a belief that the player would compromise if the two clubs reach an agreement.
Chelsea are not thought to be concerned by Aubameyang's injury but they are taking it into account as the length of the absence could mean he is only available for a small time before the break for the upcoming World Cup.
Barcelona are willing to let Aubameyang leave in order to get his wages off the books after Memphis Depay's move to Juventus fell through.
Aubameyang only signed from Barcelona in January after having his contract terminated at Arsenal and the striker received just €2m in wages after netting 13 times in the second half of the campaign.
The former Gabon international is set to receive around €20m in wages this season if he remains at Barca, meaning the club are desperate to sell due to their financial concerns.
