The future of Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang is far from settled, and Mikel Arteta is hoping it gets settled soon. The 31-year-old does have one more year remaining in his current deal, but the Gunners coach admits that the Gabon national is part of his plans for the club.
Aubameyang has been capturing attention as of late with his stellar play. Though Arteta marvels at his performance, it is also a warning sign that other clubs are watching. Though no team has formally approached the Gabon captain, anything can happen moving forward. Hence, this is a scenario that Arteta wants to avoid.
“When I was talking about the uncertain things that we have on the table, obviously he is one of them,” Arteta said to Sky Sports.
Arteta admits that he is not taking part in contract talks. Top management is discussing with Aubameyang's side, and all the Gunners manager can do is wait. However, Arsenal management may take into consideration Arteta's fondness of Aubameyang. Talks have been ongoing since before the COVID-19 pandemic, and one is bound to be sealed soon.
“With Auba, I think I’ve been very clear with what I want. The quicker we do it for me personally the better because the player will be more focused, more determined and calmer, but we have to respect the timings as well and the needs that the football club has,” Arteta said.
It is believed that Aubameyang wants a long-term deal with the Gunners. A reason behind this is that it may be the last time that the Gabonese can bat for a lucrative deal. Right now, he has been showing that he still has the jets to play at a top-level for the Gunners. That alone could be enough to convince upper management to keep him at Emirates Stadium.
Also, it appears Aubameyang prefers to stay on with Arsenal. Had it not been for the coronavirus issue, a deal would have been struck months ago. With most individuals forced to stay indoors, physically signing a new lease was impossible. However, that could change soon for as long as the COVID-19 numbers do not get out of hand.
Lastly, Aubameyang may have playfully teased on where he prefers to stay. During an Instagram Live video, the Gabonese were dared to wink if he was staying at Emirates Stadium. Aubameyang obliged but would, later on, show a wide grin. It may mean nothing or something. Regardless, it shows that the Gabon national feels pretty much at home with the Gunners.
