- 12 hours ago
Aubameyang wants Barcelona return as Chelsea prepare to tear up contract
Tom Weber
- 23 Mar 2023 11:47 GMT
- 3 min read
Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang is keen on returning to Barcelona, and Chelsea could aid him in this endeavour by releasing him from his contract prematurely.
The Gabonese striker has found it tough going in London since his €12 million move last summer. Despite Chelsea's struggles this season, Aubameyang has been left on the outside looking in.
The 33-year-old has made just 18 appearances across the Premier League and Champions League, scoring a measly three goals, and he has not featured at all for Graham Potter's side since a seven-minute cameo against Tottenham on February 26.
Mere hours after Chelsea's disappointing 2-2 draw with Everton, Aubameyang was spotted celebrating Barcelona's potentially title-deciding El Clasico victory over Real Madrid in his former sides' dressing room.
Pierre Emerick Aubameyang, almost out of Chelsea project, was in Barcelona’s dressing room after Real Madrid game 🔵🔴🤝🏻 #FCB
Auba has still excellent relationship with Barça players, board and Xavi.
He wanted to return in January but it was not possible due to FIFA rules. pic.twitter.com/5KjPpbz8gH— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) March 20, 2023
READ: Flop Aubameyang leaves Chelsea hours after Everton draw to watch Clasico
Chelsea to tear up his contract
The Chelsea striker was a popular figure at the Camp Nou, arriving for nothing, scoring 11 LaLiga goals and then flushing some much-needed money into Barca's coffers when he left.
The appreciation was mutual, and Aubameyang's appearance at his former stomping ground made it abundantly clear that he would like to return to the Catalans. According to SPORT, a comeback is a real possibility now.
Though the Blaugrana have been mired in financial troubles for a while, the economic side of an Aubameyang return would not pose an issue, reports the Spanish newspaper. Indeed, the Gabonese would be willing to take a significant pay cut compared to what he's earning at Chelsea right now.
READ: Graham Potter can't wait to get rid of unprofessional Aubameyang
Given their financial situation and the fact that they may have to pay a hefty fine if found guilty of match-fixing, Barcelona are not prepared to buy the 33-year-old out of his contract, which runs until 2024.
But, says SPORT, they potentially won't have to as the Blues are keen on getting Aubameyang off their books. A contract termination would open the door for a Barcelona return.
It would be a reasonable solution for everyone involved, though everything ultimately depends on Chelsea's willingness to part with a €12m investment for free.
