The players Chelsea signed in the previous summer transfer window haven't quite matched the expectations from when the initial deals were made. One of those that has struggled in particular is striker Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, signed as a short-term option to deal with a lack of options up front before a longer term investment was made.
The 33-year-old looked set to join up with his former boss Thomas Tuchel from his Borussia Dortmund days, but that was short lived as the German coach was dismissed just days later. With just 11 Premier League appearances and one goal to his name, Aubameyang has received fewer opportunities to impress.
It has since culminated in removing him from the Champions League squad for the rest of the competition, perhaps showing where his future at the club lies. With an exit seeming likely, here's a look at the latest on a potential move for Aubameyang in the coming weeks and months.
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No green light
Fabrizio Romano has come out to say that there is yet to be confirmation of the deal from the players end. He wrote on Twitter: "Chelsea and LAFC are still waiting for Pierre Emerick Aubameyang to decide on potential MLS move — it’s crucial step to proceed on loan deal.
"Chelsea, looking for solutions for Auba as MLS can be an option - but ‘green light’ on player side is still needed as of now."
Social media hint
LAFC have dropped a hint on Twitter with some fans speculating that it means the transfer of Aubameyang is impending. In a video posted on Friday morning the MLS outfit posted a video of a package arriving at the club, opening it up to reveal a baseball cap.
Although it is cryptic and unassuming, the wink face caption has led many to believe that it has something to do with the Aubameyang transfer links.
Player choice
While there is interest from the USA in landing Aubameyang in the coming weeks, a report from 90Min claims that the striker prefers to stay in Europe if any exit is agreed. It could mean that a proposed move to LAFC breaks down, with the player set to make a decision soon.
LAFC deal 'agreed'
Chelsea have agreed a deal in principle with Major League Soccer side Los Angeles FC that would see Aubameyang join the club on loan for the remainder of the season, according to reports. The 33-year-old will have a call to make on the deal, with LAFC looking to replace Gareth Bale following his retirement.
Squad decision
Chelsea made the huge decision to leave Aubameyang out of the squad for the Champions League, having made space for other new signings to fit in. It's a huge call from the Blues, perhaps showing where his future at Stamford Bridge may be headed in the coming weeks.
"I don't think it's going to be difficult because Pierre is a professional and of course, I understand he will be disappointed," Graham Potter said on the decision. "It was a tough decision, a tough call. We had three coming in and two had to go out. He was the one that missed out, he's done nothing wrong at all."
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