Arsenal are reportedly concerned that Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang's public fallout with manager Mikel Arteta may have weakened their bargaining position if they attempt to sell the striker.
Aubameyang has been banished from the Arsenal squad for their last two games and was stripped of the club captaincy after returning home late from a trip abroad last week.
A club statement claimed that the 32-year-old had fallen below the standards expected of an Arsenal player, particularly a captain, while Arteta has been equally as damning in his comments on the matter during press conferences.
Speculation over Aubameyang's future has grown as a result of the fallout, with Arsenal open to offers and Barcelona thought to be front-runners for his signature.
However, the Daily Mail reports that the Gunners are concerned that the public nature of the issue could lead to interested parties playing hardball in any negotiations.
Arsenal are reportedly open to offloading Aubameyang during the January transfer window, but recognise that a summer exit is more realistic given their desire to bring in a replacement too.
The North Londoners have been credited with an interest in Everton striker Dominic Calvert-Lewin, although his injury troubles this season mean that they would rather wait until the summer before making a move.
Aubameyang has scored seven goals in 15 appearances for Arsenal this season, but has not found the back of the net in the Premier League since October 22.
Barney Corkhill
