Arsenal have reportedly told Barcelona they must stump up £50million if they want to sign wantaway captain Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang this summer.
The 30-year-old has been in lethal form once again this season, scoring 17 goals in 26 games in the Premier League, and he is arguably the Gunners' most important player.
His contract expires next June, however, and there have been suggestions that Arsenal may cash in on the forward rather than run the risk of letting him leave on a free in the future, particularly if they fail to qualify for the Champions League this season.
Rumours have emerged in recent weeks suggesting that European heavyweights Barca have stepped up their pursuit of the former Borussia Dortmund forward.
And according to Spanish daily Sport via Metro, the Gunners have already held informal discussions for the La Liga giants and told Nou Camp chiefs that they want £50m for Aubameyang.
Despite their star striker entering the final 18 months of his contract, Emirates bosses believe this is a fair price given his superb form for the north Londoners.
It is understood, however, that Barca would not be willing to meet those demands and could be willing to wait for Aubameyang to run down his contract in England.
Gunners boss Mikel Arteta wants his future sorted before the end of the season as his contract saga means this could be the last chance to get a big fee for him.
Earlier this month, the Gunners captain hinted he is willing to stay at the club despite the constant speculation over his future.
He said: "I love the fans here and when I was younger I used to watch Arsenal because they had always great players, and yeah they won trophies as well.
"So I think it's really a pleasure to be here, I'm really happy. I think that's the feeling."
