At 29, Sterling has been deemed expendable at Stamford Bridge and is interested in a permanent move to another Premier League club that would allow him to revitalise his career, both at club and international level.
Chelsea are looking to free themselves from Sterling’s high wages of £325,000 a week and would be open to a loan deal given the player has three more years on his contract. Although they have held talks with Manchester United over a potential swap deal involving Jadon Sancho, this option has been complicated by the wage levels involved. Sterling has also sounded out other alternatives, including Arsenal and Aston Villa.
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta was reluctant to make a move for Sterling last week, although he maintained positive comments about his character given his previous experience at Manchester City. However, Arsenal have expressed interest in signing an attacking player and are still considering other options, including a possible move for Bayern Munich winger Kingsley Coman.
Meanwhile, Arsenal are on the verge of completing the loan signing of Bournemouth goalkeeper Neto, with a medical scheduled for Friday. Such a move would serve as a back-up to first-choice goalkeeper David Raya, allowing Aaron Ramsdale to push ahead with a move to Southampton. It has been reported that Ramsdale has agreed a deal that could reach £25m, and Arsenal are also open to signing another goalkeeper if a suitable opportunity arises.
