Wenger: Nothing is happening with Aubameyang

Arsenal isn't close to signing Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang from Borussia Dortmund, according to manager Arsene Wenger.

German magazine Kicker reported earlier Saturday that Dortmund rejected Arsenal's opening €50-million bid for the 28-year-old. BVB executive Hans-Joachim Watzke later confirmed the Gunners had made an inquiry about Aubameyang.

But Wenger's comments in the aftermath of a 4-1 win over Crystal Palace seemed to indicate there's no development to the negotiations.

"We are nowhere near anything with Dortmund," Wenger told the Evening Standard's James Benge. "They are responsible for their own statements. I cannot stand up for what they say."

Speculation of a move to north London intensified as Aubameyang worsened his already-fractious relationship with Dortmund officials. The Gabonese international was held out of draws against Wolfsburg and Hertha Berlin after skipping a team meeting at the beginning of the month. He was also sidelined last November for shooting an unauthorised video on club property.

It's believed Dortmund is looking for at least €60 million for Aubameyang, who, despite his disciplinary issues, has scored 21 goals in 23 appearances across all competitions.