The worst secret in world football was finally confirmed by Dortmund in an explosive transfer statement just after 11am this morning.
The Gunners are unlikely to be happy that their £56million record signing was announced by the selling club.
But there appears to be no love lost with Dortmund taking a jibe at Aubemayang on the way out.
BVB sporting director Michael Zorc referenced ‘unpleasant events’ related to the striker’s departure as the move was confirmed.
He said: “Apart from the unpleasant events of recent weeks, we like to remember that the story of Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang at BVB for more than four years was a single success story.
“He has done great things for Borussia Dortmund at this time, scored many important goals and is part of the team that brought the DFB Cup to Dortmund in 2017.
“We wish Pierre-Emerick all the best for his future at Arsenal. “
Five minutes after Dortmund’s confirmation, Arsenal rushed into action to confirm it themselves.
A statement read: “Welcome to Arsenal, Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang!
“The 28-year-old has joined us from Borussia Dortmund on a long-term contract for a club-record fee.
“Our second signing of the January transfer window, Auba is one of the world’s most highly-rated strikers. He scored 98 goals in 144 Bundesliga games for Dortmund and had a hand in 172 goals in 213 matches in all competitions for his former club.
“That works out at an average of 96 minutes per goal or assist.
“Auba is the Gabon captain and all-time top goalscorer, and became the first Gabonese winner of the African Footballer of the Year award in 2015.
“This deal is subject to the completion of regulatory processes and Auba’s squad number will be confirmed shortly.
“We hope to be hearing from the man himself very soon – watch this space for exclusive Aubameyang content!”
How Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang to Arsenal unfolded
January 21
Arsenal chief executive Ivan Gazidis, Sven Mislintat and Huss Fahmy are spotted in Dortmund as speculation mounts over a bid for Aubameyang
January 22
Wenger speaks about the Aubameyang deal in his press conference but remains coy on the developments.
“You never know how close you are,” he said.
“This is the kind of thing – he is one of the possible movements, but we have other things in mind as well. We have plenty of opportunities and the final decision is not made.
“At the moment we are not close to any deal, Aubameyang or anybody else.”
January 25
Dortmund reject a bid of around £50m for Aubameyang but talks continue.
January 27
Michael Zorc tells Arsenal to pay up if they want Aubameyang
“Either our demands are met, then there may be still a transfer,” Zorc told Sky Sports Germany.
“But, if they are not fulfilled then Auba plays until the summer in Dortmund. So it is discussed by the way also with the family Aubameyang and accepted.
“Arsenal has started several attempts that we have declined, so I can not say how it will end at the moment.”
January 28
Arsenal agree £180,000 a week deal with Aubameyang to make him highest-paid player in club’s history.
January 29
Arsenal finally agree a £55m deal in principle with Dortmund – although the Bundesliga side want a replacement before the deal goes through
Dortmund wanted Olivier Giroud in return but are looking into Michy Batshuayi and Anthony Modeste.
January 29
Ian Wright admits he’s nervous about Arsenal missing out on the deal
“I’m really nervous because I really want that to happen,” Wright said on BBC Radio 5 Live.
“Inadvertently Arsenal would have done good business by doing terrible business in the first place.
“They would have fallen on their feet, I’m so excited by that.”
January 30
Aubameyang gets a private jet from Dortmund to London and arrives at the Arsenal training ground.
January 31
The deal is officially announced by Borussia Dortmund