Chelsea forward Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang has reportedly expressed a desire to return to Barcelona.
During the final hours of the summer transfer window, Aubameyang left the Catalan giants to make the switch to Chelsea to work order Thomas Tuchel.
At the time, the move suited all parties, with Barcelona reducing their wage bill and Aubameyang being reunited with the manager who helped him star at Borussia Dortmund earlier in his career.
However, less than a week after his arrival, Tuchel was sacked by Chelsea, leaving the Gabon international to try to make an impact under Graham Potter.
Initially, Aubameyang was partially successful, particularly in the Champions League, but the attacker has netted just three goals for Chelsea in all competitions.
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Despite the recent arrival of Frank Lampard as caretaker manager, the 33-year-old has remained on the periphery of the squad, and it is widely expected that Aubameyang will leave ahead of 2023-24.
In recent days, it has been suggested that Barcelona are open to a reunion with Aubameyang, providing that it would be on a free transfer.
The La Liga leaders also have other potential additions in the final third, including Liverpool's Roberto Firmino, but Aubameyang is said to feature on a shortlist.
According to the Daily Mail, the player has already mentioned to some of his former teammates that a second stint at Barcelona is his preferred option.
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That is despite the same report indicating that Xavi does not recognise Aubameyang as a priority addition at this stage.
Much may come down to financial terms with Barcelona needing to make widespread cutbacks and player sales in order to register new signings.
Athletic Bilbao's Inigo Martinez, Manchester City's Ilkay Gundogan and former star man Lionel Messi are all being tipped to sign for Barcelona when they become free agents.
Furthermore, club officials are under pressure to rectify the situation with Gavi, whose senior contract cannot be registered until Barcelona have balanced the books.
Darren Plant
