Arsenal could face battle to keep hold of 85-goal man

An opening day away fixture to a club experiencing its first ever season in the Premier League is never easy. 

However, even Mikel Arteta would have been crestfallen by his side’s opening day 2-0 defeat away to promotion boys Brentford.

The Bees decimated The Gunners everywhere, as they were stronger, faster, more tactically astute, and more committed than any other Arsenal player present.

A quality finish from Sergi Canos, and a comical second goal by Christian Norgaard which saw the Gunners flustered by a long Brentford throw-in, before the Danish star headed in from close range.

And things could be set to get even worse reports from Sky Sports News are suggesting Barcelona are interested in Pierre Emerick-Aubameyang.

Aubameyang scored 15 goals for Arsenal last season.

Illness prevented the Arsenal captain, and fellow forward Alexandre Lacazette, from playing against the Bees last Friday.

However, it has been reported that the Catalans are very interested in signing the former Borussia Dortmund striker, and they could be willing to offer Philippe Coutinho in exchange.

The Gabon hitman has scored 85 goals in 148 appearances since arriving from Borussia Dortmund for £60 million in 2018.

Meanwhile, Barcelona are looking to fill the void left by Lionel Messi after his emotional departure to Paris Saint-Germain.

It is also understood the five-time European champions also tried to sign Chelsea’s Tammy Abraham, but Roma had already agreed a £36 million deal for the 23-year-old Englishman – a fee they can’t match at this time.

Up next for The Gunners is a home match against fierce rivals Chelsea on Sunday.

Arteta’s side did a surprise double over the Blues last season, and they will need a similar performance if they are to have any hope against Thomas Tuchel’s side European champions.