Chelsea optimistic about deal for ex-Premier League forward

Chelsea are believed to be optimistic about their prospects of signing Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang from Barcelona, according to reports. 

As per The Times, The Blues are hopeful that a deal for the Gabon international can be reached, with further talks scheduled for the coming week.

Aubameyang, 33, emerged as a target for Chelsea in recent weeks as Thomas Tuchel and Todd Boehly searched for a striker to be a focal point of their misfiring attack.

The ex-Arsenal man’s future at current club Barcelona was cast into doubt by the arrival of Robert Lewandowski in Catalunya.

Aubameyang is a target for Chelsea

The Polish striker is set to be Xavi’s first choice forward this season, and Aubameyang played just eight minutes of Barca’s season opener against Rayo Vallecano on Saturday.

Blues manager Tuchel is keen on a reunion with a player that he worked with at former club Borussia Dortmund, and the player himself is also said to be open to the idea of a move to Stamford Bridge, although he has not yet made a final decision on his future.

During his time in north London, the former Gunners captain scored 92 goals in 163 matches for the club.

His time there was cut short though after a disciplinary breach, and he joined Barcelona in January.