Manchester United Transfer News: Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang Rumours Intensify

Manchester United will reportedly push for the £60 million arrival of Borussia Dortmund star Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang in the summer, regardless of who is in the Old Trafford hot seat.

That's according to an exclusive from Mark Ogden of the Independent, who reported the Red Devils are already laying the groundwork to snap up the Gabon international ahead of rivals Arsenal—and according to Jack Wilson of the Daily Star, he "has told friends he favours a move" to United rather than the Gunners.

Ogden's report goes on to say the speculation over manager Louis van Gaal's future "will not affect United’s interest in Aubameyang, however, with the club accepting the need to make progress on summer recruitment before a decision is made on the Dutchman."

Ogden further noted the club have relaxed their policy of not signing African players—so as not to suffer their absence during the Africa Cup of Nations—in order to ensure they don't miss out on any potential stars.

Aubameyang is well on his way to securing that status for himself thanks to his efforts this season. Squawka Football revealed the extent of his incredible form:

The 26-year-old has also contributed eight assists in all competitions thus far, bringing his astounding goals and assists tally to 39.

Though managers tend to have their own ideas of who to recruit and the style of play they want their players to produce, few would be unhappy with the prospect of Aubameyang arriving at Old Trafford.

Jose Mourinho continues to be linked with Van Gaal's position in the dugout, with Samuel Luckhurst of the Manchester Evening News reporting Mourinho is confident he has a "gentleman's agreement" to take over when United part ways with the beleaguered 64-year-old.

Antonio Calanni/Associated Press

Regardless of whether the manager is Van Gaal, Mourinho or another, Aubameyang's arrival would greatly improve the Red Devils' attacking options.

As Squawka Football demonstrated, Aubameyang is deadly in the penalty area:

He's not just a finisher of moves, though, as the forward also possesses great pace and strong technique, as the video below illustrates:

However, Bundesliga expert Clark Whitney believes that while the fee set to be offered by United could be enough for Dortmund to accept, a large bid alone won't persuade the German side to give up their prize striker:

Indeed, while BVB have plenty of players who can score goals in their squad, the only other natural centre-forward option is Adrian Ramos—who has scored just nine goals in 52 appearances—so they have no ready-made replacements for Aubameyang in the side.

Unless the striker personally pushes for a move away, United may well find recruiting him a difficult proposition—though they might enjoy more success in tempting him if Mourinho is in charge, given Van Gaal's struggles this season.