This archive report was first published on 16 June 2020.
On June 16, 2020, Arsenal captain Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang's contract situation was a major concern for the North London club. With just 12 months left on his deal, Aubameyang made it clear that the ball was in Arsenal's court to reach an agreement over an extension.
Aubameyang, the club's leading goalscorer, has been in high demand, and he wants to return to the Champions League. He has impressed manager Mikel Arteta with his work ethic and willingness to help the club's younger players.
However, the extent to which Arsenal will invest in their playing squad over the summer transfer window remains unclear. The club cannot afford to lose their main marksman, who won the Premier League golden boot last term and is again in the running for the prize this season.
Speaking during a press conference on Zoom, Arteta laid out his thoughts on the matter, making clear that he wants Aubameyang to stay at the club. "I think it's our responsibility to make him feel this is the right next step in his career," said Arteta.
Arteta also acknowledged that Aubameyang had not recently received a proposition from the club regarding extending his contract past 2021. He attributed this to the unprecedented times and the uncertainty surrounding the club's future.
Another player whose contract situation is a cause for concern is teenage star Bukayo Saka, who also has just 12 months left on his deal. Arteta stated that the club is trying to finalise the deals that are more urgent and are a priority for them.
