Barcelona: Aubameyang could return to Camp Nou on one condition

The Gabonese striker has struggled for playing time since joining Chelsea from Barca last summer.

Barcelona could reportedly return Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang if their move for Vitor Roque collapses.

Aubameyang has failed to make an impact after his £10.5 million transfer to Chelsea in the summer transfer window. Widespread reports in English media claim the former Arsenal striker is desperate to return to Barca, where he scored 13 goals in 24 appearances last season.

However, the Catalans have found a new priority target for the position.

According to Fabrizio Romano, Vitor Roque is the number one candidate on Barca’s list for a new striker. The club reportedly considers him a “future top player”.

The Brazilian teenager has attracted interest from a number of elite sides with his performances for Athletico Paranaense. The Brazilian sources have claimed he has a £52.5 million release clause at his current club.

Speaking to SPORT in February, Roque confirmed his interest in joining the Catalans. However, Barcelona are reportedly unwilling to pay more than £22 million for the teenage striker.

Barca are eager to have a promising young striker play as Robert Lewandowski’s backup. However, their ongoing financial issues could force them to pursue a move for Aubameyang next summer.

Mirror claims the Catalans might consider a “cost-effective” loan move for their former striker when the current season ends.