Borussia Dortmund Reportedly Target Michy Batshuayi to Replace Aubameyang

Borussia Dortmund are reportedly lining up a move for Chelsea misfit Michy Batshuayi to replace Arsenal target Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang.

German newspaper Bild (h/t the Mirror's Alex Richards) noted Aubameyang has already agreed personal terms with the Gunners, and Batshuayi is the man they're seeking to succeed him if he moves to the Emirates Stadium.

Per the article, Dortmund have scouted the Belgium international extensively and were interested in making a move for him in the summer of 2016, prior to his €40 million switch from Marseille to Stamford Bridge.

Goal's Nizaar Kinsella recently provided comments from Chelsea manager Antonio Conte regarding his fringe player, who has started only twice in the Premier League this term:

Aubameyang's move away from the Westfalenstadion looks even more assured after general manager Michael Zorc confessed the forward's discipline has become too great an issue, per Richards: 

“At some point you can't tolerate it any more. I don't know what's going on inside his head. We had a very contentious discussion today. We're not used to this behaviour from him.

"What is going on now is not to be tolerated by the club. It is clear: It cannot go on like this. I don't know what is going through his mind. I don't recognise him anymore. 

"There is trouble in the team and that's not good."

There may yet be a chance for the Gabon international to rescue his Bundesliga career, however, after Goal's Chris Wheatley provided comment from Dortmund head coach Peter Stoger:

While Aubameyang has scored 21 times in 23 appearances for his club this season, Batshuayi has netted seven in seven starts in all senior competitions (20 appearances in total). The 24-year-old's chances have been limited as he sits behind first-choice Alvaro Morata in the pecking order.

It's difficult to envision the Belgian receiving headline duties at Stamford Bridge as long as Morata remains fit, and Conte recently gave some indication as to the supplemental role he can play:

But Batshuayi's strike rate of one goal per start this term points to a lurking talent, and the Black and Yellows will me more ready to invest in his potential than the Blues—particularly if Aubameyang leaves.

The Dortmund star must first move to the Emirates Stadium before Chelea's outcast can bank on a transfer, though, and Arsenal writer James McNicholas gave some insight into why that move could materialise:

Batshuayi left Ligue 1 as one of the French top flight's biggest prospects, but all he's been able to display in west London is glimpses of his potential.

Dortmund may look to revive the 24-year-old's career with a midseason move, although Chelsea may seek to find cover of their own before they agree to any departures.