I’ll only leave Dortmund for Real Madrid – Aubameyang

Matt Stead

Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang says that Real Madrid are the only side that could prise him away from Borussia Dortmund, ruling out a move to Manchester City.

The Gabon international – the reigning African Footballer of the Year – has been heavily linked with a British record £70million switch to City this summer following the appointment as Pep Guardiola as manager.

Atletico Madrid have also been linked as potential suitors for the former St Etienne man, but he stated in an interview earlier this year that he had made a promise to his grandfather that he would one day play for Real Madrid.

And Aubameyang has reiterated that only Zinedine Zidane’s side could tempt him away from Signal Iduna Park.

“This year, no,” he told ZDF when asked about a possible move.

“But the only club I would leave Dortmund for are Real Madrid. If they don’t come calling, I don’t leave.

“My grandfather, the dad of my mum, always wished that I would play in Spain. Two years ago, when he died, I promised him that someday I will play for Real – and I work hard to reach that goal.

“Real Madrid is my main goal but at the moment I like it in Dortmund. If there is a chance to go to Madrid, I will immediately say yes – but at the moment there is no contact.”

Aubameyang, who was on target in the 4-1 win over Manchester United in the International Champions Cup on Friday, has been joined at Dortmund by rising French star Ousmane Dembele.

And head coach Thomas Tuchel believes the 27-year-old could be the perfect mentor for the former Rennes teenager.

Tuchel said: “Because of his perfect French, Auba is the perfect integrative figure for Ousmane Dembele.

“I think that Auba is adult enough to play a role like this.”