Gunners legend Paul Merson, however, has urged his former club to fend off clubs keen on Aubameyang even if they can’t get him to sign a new contract.
He said on Sky Sports’ The Debate: “If I was Arsenal I would keep him and tell him to give us what they can next season, get us back in the Champions League and then you can go for free.
“It’s hard to buy goals and this guy is a natural goal-scorer. It’s hard to buy that.”
He did warn however that Gabriel Martinelli may not be ready to take up the mantle just yet.
Merson added: “I like Martinelli, he’s a top player, but you’re getting 15-20 goals guaranteed with Aubameyang, that’s some doing for Martinelli.
“I can’t talk highly enough of Martinelli.
“He’s 18 and playing in the best league in the world. I’m a big fan of his. He will be a superstar.”