Chelsea make formal approach for Raheem Sterling as optimism grows deal can be done within a week
Chelsea have made a formal approach to Manchester City over the possible signing of Raheem Sterling, according to reports.
Sterling has become a target for Chelsea as he approaches the final 12 months of his contract with Manchester City. The west London outfit will be evolving their attack should Romelu Lukaku return to Inter Milan as expected.
The addition of winger Sterling would give them a different dimension. With that in mind, they have been preparing a move for the England international.
Now, they have taken a step forward in their pursuit. According to the Daily Mail, they are now in formal contact with Manchester City about the transfer.
New Chelsea owner Todd Boehly led the contact himself. He is optimistic of securing Sterling’s signature within a week.
To get their man, Chelsea will have to pay City more than what the champions will be receiving from Arsenal for £45m man Gabriel Jesus. Sterling’s asking price is closer to £55m.
Chelsea will submit a formal bid within the coming days, hoping to take advantage of Sterling’s desire to move on. Talks with Chelsea boss Thomas Tuchel have reinforced his stance.
Sterling would be leaving City on good terms, but could be lining up against them in the Premier League next season.
Chelsea would have to agree personal terms with him if their bid is accepted. He currently earns £300,000 per week at the Etihad Stadium, the report reminds.
Hence, his potential move to Chelsea would be a significant one for the new ownership. But it is something he could clearly consider.
Other sources, such as the PA news agency, are indicating Chelsea are closing in on the signing of Sterling. It would be one of the most high-profile domestic transfers in recent memory.
Sterling could add to English contingent at Chelsea
Over the past few seasons, Chelsea have increased their number of homegrown options, mainly thanks to their academy.
Raheem Sterling to Chelsea makes sense
Raheem Sterling has been linked with a move to Chelsea.
The likes of Reece James, Mason Mount, Trevoh Chalobah, Callum Hudson-Odoi and Ruben Loftus-Cheek have progressed into the first team. British talents have also arrived on transfers from elsewhere, like Ben Chilwell.
Sterling could be the next in line, adding his own flavour to the Chelsea mix.
It means their new era should contain an exciting blend of players, although there is still plenty of work to do when it comes to other areas of their squad.
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