“`html
While sidelined by Arsenal, stripped of his captaincy and banished from the first team, Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang (32) might find respite competing in the CAN 2021 tournament in Cameroon, from January 9th to February 6th, 2022, representing his nation, Gabon. This presents a sensitive sporting predicament for the Gabonese international (71 appearances, 29 goals), who hasn’t featured for the Gunners since their December 6th defeat against Everton (2-1). However, several clubs are actively pursuing the Laval native during this winter transfer period. Newcastle, in particular, has reportedly made inquiries with Mikel Arteta’s squad, according to the Mirror.
Currently nineteenth in the Premier League, the Magpies trail Watford, the first team outside the relegation zone, by two points. This precarious position compels Newcastle’s new ownership to act decisively in the current transfer window. To that end, the Geordies aim to capitalize on Aubameyang’s difficult situation and have contacted Arsenal, hoping to secure a loan deal for the Gabonese star until the season’s end, with a potential permanent transfer option. The Mirror suggests a potential summer transfer fee of £20 million.
Aubameyang and a Newcastle move?
With the 32-year-old striker’s Arsenal tenure seemingly nearing its end, NUFC could secure a significant acquisition since the Saudi takeover. Many believe a successful January transfer window is crucial for Newcastle’s survival; the addition of the Gunners’ number 14 could bolster their underperforming attack (19 goals in 19 Premier League matches), particularly given the recent injuries to Callum Wilson and Allan Saint-Maximin. When recently questioned about potential signings, Newcastle manager Eddie Howe remained cautious, focusing on his current squad.
“Let’s wait and see; I can’t offer any guarantees. As stated previously, senior team members are working on this. I’m concentrating on the team. Many matches lie ahead, demanding our utmost focus. January, as repeatedly mentioned, is notoriously unpredictable, making definitive planning nearly impossible due to unexpected occurrences. My
