The Athletic claims Raheem Sterling has accepted an offer from Chelsea ahead of an expected 45 million pound-worth move from Manchester City.
Sterling will become City’s third departure this summer. The Citizens lost Fernandinho upon the expiration of his contract in the close season before selling Gabriel Jesus to Arsenal. To make up for the departures, the Premier League champions have already signed attackers Julian Alvarez and Erling Haaland, as well as central midfielder Kalvin Phillips.
Chelsea’s interest in Sterling stretches back a month. The Blues had joined rivals Arsenal and Tottenham in the race for the England international, whose contract at City would be up at the end of the 2022/23 season, thus making him available for transfer at a reasonable price.
Arsenal and Spurs decided to chase targets elsewhere thereafter while, at the same time, Thomas Tuchel convinced the player of his vision for the club, making a move a matter of formalities.
As per The Telegraph, the Blues will pay City a sum in the region of 45-55 million pounds for the Englishman, who will become the club’s highest-paid player – earning a wage upwards of 300,000 pounds per week.
Meanwhile, Chelsea continue to chase targets on all fronts, looking for a statement signing this summer under the new ownership. Rumours, of late, have linked the Blues to Barcelona’s midfielder Frenkie de Jong, who is also desired by Manchester United.
The Red Devils, however, are thought to be far advanced in their discussions with Barcelona regarding the transfer of the Netherlands international, with the two clubs currently stuck on finding an agreement for a 65 million euro fee.
Chelsea also want to sign de Jong’s compatriot – and former Ajax teammate – Matthijs de Ligt for defence but face competition from German champions Bayern Munich for his signature.
