Arsenal may not have to rely on the transfer business of their Premier League rivals to complete a deal for Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang.
The Gunners have agreed a fee with Borussia Dortmund for the Gabon striker, however the German club will not sanction the move until they have secured a replacement.
That’s where Chelsea and Tottenham come into the picture.
Chelsea striker Michy Batshuayi has been linked with a move to Dortmund, but first the Blues must find a replacement. They’ve been linked with Arsenal’s Olivier Giroud, but also Tottenham striker Fernando Llorente. If they can agree a deal for either forward, it could start the chain of events needed for Aubameyang to arrive at Arsenal.
However, Dortmund are not only looking at Batshuayi. Having shown interest but given up on Giroud, there is also the option of Anthony Modeste.
According to German publication SZ, the French striker is considered an option by Borussia Dortmund, although he is the least favoured choice.
The former FC Koln player is currently on loan in China at Tianjin Quanjian, but is reportedly unhappy and interested in a return to Germany. Current Dortmund manager Peter Stoger managed him at Koln and is open to a reunion.
The player’s agent has hinted Modeste could be returning to Germany.
‘It is no secret he feels comfortable in Germany and in the Bundesliga,’ said Patrick Mendy. ‘We will listen to everything and then we’ll see what happens until Wednesday [transfer deadline day].’
Arsenal will hope a deal can be agreed which would see Borussia Dortmund get their replacement – without the need for Chelsea or Tottenham to get involved – and Aubameyang finally arrive at the Emirates.
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