Barcelona, Real Madrid line up shock move for Aubameyang

Arsenal striker Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang [Courtesy]

Spanish giants Barcelona and Real Madrid are reportedly lining up a move for Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang amid speculation he is considering leaving Arsenal.

The 30-year-old has been the Gunners' star player since signing from Dortmund in 2017, scoring 31 goals last season and with nine to his name already so far in the current campaign.

His contract is due to expire at the end of next season, however, and he is unlikely to stay if Arsenal fail to secure Champions League football.

According to the Daily Star both Barca and Real are both aware of the contract situation and are monitoring Aubameyang closely.

Aubameyang has also been linked with a move to China in the past on a lucrative contract, but he is thought to be keen to stay in Europe for now.

It was recently reported that both he and fellow striker Alexandre Lacazette were refusing to commit to signing a new contract, and Lacazette is also thought to have had a furious exchange with manager Unai Emery following the disappointing 2-2 draw with Southampton at the weekend.

Barcelona are known to be keen on adding a forward to their squad, with Luis Suarez now 32 and arguably past his best while Lionel Messi is also the same age and unlikely to maintain his incredible level of performance for too many more years.

Madrid, meanwhile, also have an ageing striker in Karim Benzema, 31, and are always on the lookout for another potential 'Galactico' to join their squad.

The loss of either Aubameyang or Lacazette would be a bitter blow to Arsenal fans, who are already furious with manager Emery, with the majority of them appearing to lose support for the beleaguered Spaniard following a dreadful recent run of form.