According to Spanish media outlet Sport via Tribal Football, Chelsea believe Barcelona are behind Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang’s refusal to join the MLS and are demanding Barcelona pay a fee if they want to sign the striker.

The report on Tribal Football states: “Chelsea is refusing to grant Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang a free transfer to Barcelona.

“Aubameyang is keen to return to Barca a year after leaving for Chelsea in a €12m move.

“Given he’s been frozen out at Chelsea, the veteran was expecting a release from his contract to help Barca fit him under their financial cap amid issues with the LaLiga.

“However, Sport says Chelsea’s anger at Aubameyang is monumental after the veteran appeared in the Barca dressing room a fortnight ago after their Copa win at Real Madrid.

“There is also frustration that Aubameyang refused a move to MLS offered by Chelsea in January.

“Convinced Barca are heavily involved in Auba’s behaviour, Chelsea are now insisting they pay a fee if they want to re-sign the veteran.”