Barcelona's Plan B involves Arsenal reject Aubameyang

Right now Barcelona have so many transfer doors ajar that it’s almost impossible to predict what starting line-up Xavi Hernández could go with come February. After confirming the signing of Adama Traoré from Wolves — Ferran Torres already part of the set-up — more reinforcements are expected, with much dependent on the outcome of the Ousmane Dembélé case.

If Barça are able to find a exit solution for the French striker, then the search for another forward will be reactivated immediately, especially with the absence of Ansu Fati. And in this sense, two names are being considered at the club.

A. Morata and B. Aubameyang

Plan A is already common knowledge with Juventus striker Álvaro Morata being the chosen one to lead the attack. Xavi wanted him, the player was keen and Juventus’ only request was that they were given enough time to look for a replacement. The latter element has been sorted.

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The problem, however, is the player’s parent club, and rival to the Catalans, Atlético Madrid, who do not want a six-month loan agreement. Instead they are looking for a compulsory purchase option, not what Barcelona were aiming for. That said, this deal is by no means over and Morata and his agent, Juanma Lopez, have been in Madrid to try and unravel the obstacles to make the move a reality.

So it’s still possible, but by no means certain. And for this reason, as we at AS have learned, Barça have been working on a Plan B for some time, aware of the difficulties involved in bringing in Morata, as well as some pushback from elements of the club and fans. This back-up plan has a name: Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang.

The Arsenal striker, who is now far from Mikel Arteta's plans, would be a highly valued option within the coaching team at the Camp Nou, who see in the Gabonese player as a potential game changer. The idea would be that he would come on loan until 30 June 2022.

Xavi likes the versatility of the player, who can play both on the wing and through the middle. He has also shown that when on form, has a remarkable knack for scoring goals. He has scored 92 goals in 163 games at Arsenal, while his numbers at Borussia Dortmund were even more remarkable, scoring 141 goals in 213 games.

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Aubameyang, now 32, has a reputation as a troublemaker, but Barcelona believe they can get him back firing and leading a talented, but young, squad.

There are only a few days left to make the moves happen before the transfer window closes. And the key to either of these doors being forced open lies in a final decision on Ousmane Dembélé. We’re watching closely.