Chelsea star Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang has begun discussions to terminate his contract at the club, which would allow him to join a new side on a free transfer in the summer window. That's according to Sport, which reports that the striker is keen to leave the Blues in the coming weeks.
While that would pave the way for a potential move to Barcelona, that isn't the plan for the Blues at this moment in time. The report adds that the club are unwilling to facilitate this exit at the moment, given the amount of money they paid to sign the striker last summer.
However, it does show a willingness from Aubameyang to facilitate the switch, which could make an exit easier for the west London club. That could be key for them before Mauricio Pochettino is set to take over, with the former Tottenham boss the clear favourite to become the next head coach.
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One thing that is clear for Chelsea is that there's an imbalance in the squad that needs to be addressed after an influx in signings over the past 12-months. Aubameyang is one of those that hasn't worked, rarely featuring in the first team, despite their consistent struggle to score goals.
Rumours have kickstarted over a return to Barca being a possibility, with the striker explaining that he would like a return to the Spanish side. Discussing his future on a TikTok live, the striker was asked about a return to Barca and he told DjamLife, via Fabrizio Romano: "I’d like to return to Barcelona… but we will see."
With the Blaugrana having to hold back on their spending, no transfer fee and a reduction in his salary are required. It remains to be seen if the Blues will allow for that to happen as the summer window draws nearer, though it could be a huge boost if the terminated deal begins the big squad clearout.
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