PIERRE-EMERICK AUBAMEYANG has confirmed he rejected “several offers, notably from Barca” to instead become Arsenal’s highest-paid player ever.
Manchester United were also linked with the Gunners’ skipper, 31, before he signed a new three-year Gunners’ contract worth £350,000 a week.
Skipper Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang says manager Mikel Arteta and fans persuaded him to turn down Barcelona and stay at ArsenalCredit: Getty Images – Getty
Arsenal’s star striker insists he stayed at Arsenal because he believes in boss Mikel Arteta and was overwhelmed by pleas from fans.
The Gabon superstar told French TV show Canal Football Club: “There were several offers, notably from Barca, but also other clubs.
“My priority was to stay for two reasons.
“The first is the coach, Mikel Arteta, because we spoke a fair amount during the ‘lockdown’ as they say here.
“We were at home and spoke several times and he convinced me, notably in terms of the project.
“And of course, secondly, is the love that I receive from the fans and people at the club.
“Since I have been here I have been treated like one of their own, and as I am one of their own, I am going to stay here, it is as simple as that.”
Aubameyang has also urged the Gunners to sign Lyon playmaker Houssem Aouar before the October 5 transfer deadline.
Arsenal have been linked with a £34milion deal for the 22-year-old, still well short of his French club’s £45m valuation.
And the Mirror report Aubameyang as saying: “He’s a very good player.
“I hope we will be lucky to have these types of players at the club, I’m sure he can bring a lot to us.”
Arsenal should make £50m Dele Alli transfer offer from rivals Tottenham to add midfield goals, says Ray Parlour
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
