Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang has stressed he is “happy” at Arsenal in his latest show of commitment to the club.
The Gunners’ captain’s future has been subject to speculation in recent months as he approaches the final year of his contract.
Both Real Madrid and Barcelona are rumoured to be interested in the 30-year-old, while Arsenal remain hopeful of tying him down to a new deal.
Aubameyang is yet to agree fresh terms, and could be swayed on whether Arsenal qualify for European football next season, but has seemingly quelled any suggestions of him leaving.
“I try to always be ready, whatever happens,” Aubameyang told the Premier League. “I am a guy who tries to be always ready.
(Image: Arsenal FC via Getty Images)
“I love the fans here and when I was younger I used to watch Arsenal because they had always great players, and yeah they won trophies as well.
“So I think it’s really a pleasure to be here, I’m really happy. I think that’s the feeling.”
Aubameyang is yet to win a trophy at Arsenal, nor play in the Champions League.
At 30, the forward only has limited years remaining at the top level, and has been urged to leave Arsenal if he wants to be considered among the greats.
(Image: AFP via Getty Images)
Former Chelsea midfielder Joe Cole told BT Sport last week: “If I’m Aubameyang, I’d be looking out the door because he’s a player that needs to be playing at the very, very top level.
“He needs to be playing in the Champions League.
“He’s not played enough years in the Champions League to cement himself as a top, top player, which is what he actually is because his stats and his numbers add up with anyone.”
Any hopes Arsenal have of retaining the striker could hinge on his wage demands, which the Mail report could scupper any renewal.
They claim Aubameyang’s representatives are requesting a 30 per cent hike on his current wage – boosting him to a salary of around £300,000.
If Arsenal fail to qualify for the Champions League next season, it will be unlikely they will be able to match their skipper’s demands, which could force them into a sale. rather than lose Aubameyang for nothing next year.
