Raheem Sterling v Gabriel Jesus: Why Chelsea are getting better value than Arsenal

Robin Bairner

• Updated: 10 Jul 2022 21:24 BST
• 3 min read

Chelsea are set to announce the signing of Manchester City winger Raheem Sterling in the coming days.

It follows on from Gabriel Jesus’ move to Arsenal from the Etihad club earlier in the summer transfer window.

Sterling’s deal is widely reported to have been concluded for around an initial £45 million (with £10m in add-ons). This is virtually identical to the figure that Arsenal paid for Jesus – but who is getting better value for money?

Sterling, it should be said, is an underrated figure. No player has contributed more goals and assists under Pep Guardiola’s reign at Manchester City, surpassing the likes of Kevin De Bruyne and Sergio Aguero.

Sterling and Gabriel Jesus' numbers

What is perhaps most remarkable about the 27-year-old’s contribution is that since Gabriel Jesus arrived in January 2017, Sterling has 19 more goals than the Brazil international. When the ‘per 90’ figure is looked at, Jesus actually has a slight edge, posting 0.6 goals per 90, but given that he has spent a fair portion of his time at the club playing as a centre forward, winger Sterling posts arguably the better return.

Equally, the winger is the more creative player. He has 16 more assists than his former Manchester City colleague and has created nearly twice as many chances. When the figures are considered over 90 minutes, the gap closes, but again the Englishman is the stronger player.

Jesus does arguably hold the edge in terms of potential that can be unlocked. Arsenal will be hoping that with regular football and a key role in their side, he can find his best level. It’s a case of now or never for the Brazilian, who is 25 and approaching the age most players tend to hit their peak.

Should Chelsea close out the deal for Sterling, they are getting surer value for their money, but Arsenal hope they will be rewarded for backing Jesus to become a superstar.