EXCLUSIVE: Arsenal step up Sterling move as Arteta phones Chelsea outcast

Steve Kay

Updated: 30 Aug 2024 13:19 BST
3 min read

Arsenal's pursuit of Chelsea winger Raheem Sterling is gathering momentum as Mikel Arteta held a phone conversation with the ex-England international last night, FootballTransfers has been told.

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Sources close to the negotiations have revealed that Arteta personally reached out to Sterling yesterday, discussing the potential move in detail.

Both parties are happy about the terms of the proposed transfer, with no issues arising over wages during the discussion.

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Arteta and Sterling share a strong rapport from their time together at Manchester City, a factor that could significantly influence the 29-year-old's decision as he looks for a new club.

However, any potential deal faces a hurdle with Reiss Nelson's future at the club. Nelson, who has been linked with a move away from Arsenal, now seems likely to stay, which could create complications with Financial Fair Play (FFP) regulations if he remains on the books.

Chelsea, for their part, are open to selling Sterling but would prefer to recoup a fee for the player. Despite the positive discussions between Arteta and Sterling, Arsenal are yet to engage in negotiations with Chelsea.

Sterling is not the only player on Arsenal’s radar, as the club explores multiple options to strengthen their squad.

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Current ETV

Raheem Sterling

M (L), AM (R)

Chelsea

Raheem Sterling

M (L), AM (R)

Chelsea

ETV Range

€39.1M - €65.1M

What has Enzo Maresca said about Raheem Sterling?

Sterling has other suitors, including Manchester United, as Chelsea try and offload him from Stamford Bridge.

Ahead of Chelsea’s 2-1 defeat to Servette on Thursday night, Blues head coach Enzo Maresca told the media: “I prefer to be honest with players. The ones who are not involved are not going to be involved and they won't get any minutes if they stay.

© IMAGO - Enzo Maresca has openly admitted that Raheem Sterling is not in his plans

“I don't know what happens when the window closes if they are still here. The ones who will get minutes are the ones I think can help us.”

He continued: “Raheem is a fantastic guy who has trained very well. Every manager has a different idea and he is the kind of winger that is not one that I like. History and numbers speak for Raheem. He knows exactly what he needs to do.

“The rest are training apart, they are not going to get minutes. I have been clear and honest with them.”