Arsenal has been warned by Tony Cascarino, a former Chelsea player, that trading former captain Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang next month could be tough.

The Gunners announced earlier this week that the 32-year-old striker would lose his captaincy at the Emirates Stadium owing to a disciplinary infringement.

Mikel Arteta declared that he will not be facing Leeds United a few days later after Aubameyang was left out of the team to face West Ham United on Wednesday.

Aubameyang’s future in north London has been cast into doubt following his spat with Arteta, with Barcelona reportedly interested in his services.

Cascarino has now revealed to talkSPORT why Arsenal may have difficulties in moving their former captain during the January transfer window.

He stated, ” “From the outside, I believe Arsenal would choose that option if they could transfer him and get out of it cheaply, or if a club would loan him for a length of time. That, I believe, is apparent.

“You don’t make such a major decision without consequences. He’s only staying because it’ll be difficult to get rid of him. There aren’t many clubs in Europe that can afford to sign Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang because he’s on such a huge contract.

This has given Arsenal pause for thinking in their pursuit of a striker. Granted, a clinical finisher who can convert the opportunities that the Gunners create must be high on the list of desirable qualities, but so must the player’s enthusiasm. Their ability to press and chase down the opposition will be crucial.