Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang told to issue Arsenal public statement after journalist’s deadline-day update – Campbell
Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang must issue a public statement committing to Arsenal if he wants to return to the fold under Mikel Arteta, according to Kevin Campbell.
The former Gunners striker, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, claimed the 32-year-old is still “there to be utilised” by Arteta if a move to Barcelona falls through.
According to journalist Fabrizio Romano (31 January), the Blaugrana’s last-gasp loan move for Aubameyang is in danger of falling through with the Catalan club needing to free up funds in order to complete the move.
Romano claimed Barcelona have offered Ousmane Dembele as part of a deal for the Gabon captain, but the Frenchman reportedly has no interest in joining Arsenal.
Campbell insisted the striker is “still an asset” for the Gunners despite his discipline issues.
“If they try and move him out and it doesn’t happen, he’s still an Arsenal player,” he told Football Insider‘s Dylan Childs.
“He’s still an asset – if they choose to use him.
“He wasn’t ripping any trees up before he was omitted, he’s not come out and said he’s committed to Arsenal Football Club.
“At the end of the day, that begs the question – will he be committed to the club? I don’t think he will be.
“For that to happen to the captain of the side, he has to come out and say something if he wants to come back into the fold.
“But we’ve heard nothing.
“He’s an asset for Arsenal, but as far as I’m concerned – the manager will want to move him on. But if it doesn’t work out, he’s there to be utilised – if need be.”
Aubameyang has not featured for Arsenal since a disciplinary breach saw him stripped of the captaincy in December.
Alexandre Lacazette and Eddie Nketiah are the only other striking options for the north London club.
In other news, pundit issues ‘big’ Arsenal claim after talkSPORT update on Premier League star.