Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang is reportedly one of three key players looking to quit Arsenal as Mikel Arteta takes over at the Emirates.
The Arsenal captain leads a group of players that actively want to leave, reflecting a growing mood in the squad, reports The Independent.
The Gunners could be facing a similar situation to Mesut Ozil and Alexis Sanchez in the last few seasons, as the contract of their best-paid player runs out within a year and a half and he shows no willingness to sign a new one.
Aubameyang wants to join a club he feels can better challenge for trophies, and has no desire to commit to a long-term future at Arsenal.
Alexandre Lacazette and Granit Xhaka are among others considering their future, but several sources say it is a feeling spreading among “half the squad”.
The Arsenal hierarchy have realised that a significant clear-out may be needed, in light of how the poor performance of many players greatly influenced institutional decisions.
Arsenal had hoped to buy time after the sacking of Unai Emery through the interim appointment of Freddie Ljungberg, but the players’ lack of response and their relegation form has forced the board’s hand into appointing Arteta.
Another problem for Arteta is that Arsenal do not currently have a significant transfer fund, with finances likely to be further affected by another season out of the Champions League, and maybe even without European football altogether if they cannot drastically improve this season’s form.
It means that the sale of want-away assets like Aubameyang may in fact be necessary for the team’s development.
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