Manchester United emerge as surprise contenders to sign Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang as Chelsea struggle to get deal agreed for ex-Arsenal star

Manchester United have emerged as surprise contenders to sign Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang.

According to Gianluca Di Marzio, the Red Devils are hopeful of securing a move for the Barcelona star before Thursday’s transfer deadline.

Chelsea are also in pursuit of the Gabon international, however with no deal yet agreed it has left the door open for United to make a move of their own.

Aubameyang has only been with Barcelona for eight months having joined the club in controversial fashion in the January transfer window after having his contract terminated with Arsenal.

Since then the 33-year-old has certainly impressed with 13 goals in 24 appearances for the Catalan giants.

Under pressure to free up funds, it seems like a move away could be a distinct possibility for Aubameyang, and a move to United could benefit all parties.

Ten Hag is determined to strengthen his attacking department, and with uncertainty swirling around the future of Cristiano Ronaldo, it means that he may be in need of both goals and experience from his centre forward.

With United getting off to an unsteady start in the Premier League, a move for a player with the Premier League experience of Aubameyang could make a lot of sense.

However with Chelsea also desperate to bring in a striker of a similar profile, it means that we could be set for a two-way battle between two of England’s biggest sides for a deal that would be among the biggest of the summer window.