Zidane ‘would prefer Mane to Aubameyang’

Real Madrid are interested in Arsenal striker Pierre Emerick Aubameyang but would rather sign Liverpool star Sadio Mane, according to the Daily Express.

There has been much speculation over the future of Aubameyang, who has been linked with several clubs – including Chelsea.

Real and Barcelona have also been linked with the Gabon international amid reports that he could leave the Emirates Stadium this summer.

According to the Express, Real boss Zinedine Zidane has spoken to Aubameyang and told him he is interested in a potential deal to sign him – but that he is not among the Spanish club’s top targets.

Zidane would apparently prefer to sign Mane or highly-rated youngster Erling Haaland of Borussia Dortmund, with Aubameyang seen as a possible back-up option if those players are out of Real’s reach.

Meanwhile, Gunners boss Mikel Arteta reportedly wants to sign a defensive midfielder because he believes it could get the best out of Mesut Ozil.

Ozil has been out of favour and reports have suggested he could be on the way out of the club.

But The Sun say Arteta believes a more defensive player in midfield could enable Ozil to reproduce his best form.

Valencia’s Coler Soler has been touted as a possible signing.