There would have been a queue of clubs chasing his signature next summer if he was going to be available on a free.

But Aubameyang clearly believes in the direction Arteta is taking the club by signing an extension, which could suggest he has been given promises that the club will continue to invest to help give them the best chance of climbing up the table.

Arsenal’s top target remains Thomas Partey, who has a £45million release clause in his contract with Atletico Madrid.

The Gunners have been crying out for a strong central midfielder for several years now with Lucas Torreira expected to leave the club in the near future.