Aubameyang, Vitor Roque and Firmino – Romano gives the truth behind Barcelona’s striker hunt

Robin Bairner

• 24 Apr 2023 12:19 BST
• 2 min read

Barcelona want to add another striker to their squad in the summer, with Roberto Firmino, Vitor Roque and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang among the names linked with the Camp Nou side as they seek support for Robert Lewandowski.

There were reports over the weekend that a deal for Firmino was effectively done, while Athletico Paranaense youngster Vitor Roque has been a named associated with the club for many weeks. Aubameyang, meanwhile, has also been touted for a return to the club.

Fabrizio Romano has explained why it is a move for Chelsea forward Aubameyang that looks the transfer likeliest to succeed in this case.

MORE: The TRUTH behind Messi's Barcelona visit

“I keep telling you that Aubameyang will leave Chelsea at the end of the season, that this is his idea to try a new experience and the player’s dream is to return to Barcelona,” Romano explained on his YouTube channel.

“He was very happy at Bracelona. He loved the coach – he had a great relationship with Xavi – but also his teammates, the city and the fans. So everything was special.

“I’m told that Barcelona would be really happy to bring Aubameyang back. From what I understand, despite the rumours for Roberto Firmino, Aubameyang is the favourite option for Barca as the link up striker with Lewandowski.”

MORE: Mbappe hopes to ruin Barcelona's Messi pursuit

Why Barcelona want Aubameyang back

Romano went on to explain why the Chelsea striker is favoured at Barca.

“He’s the favourite option because he’s the easiest option, of course,” he said. “It will only happen at good conditions for Barca because of Financial Fair Play (FFP). Nothing is advanced, nothing is done and it depends on how much Chelsea want for Aubameyang.

“Vitor Roque is super impressive but is very expensive. Athletico Paranaense want €40-45 million for their gem. It’s not easy for Barca at this stage.

“Roberto Firmino was discussed in January but nothing is advanced because of the salary request.”