Arsenal in talks with Chelsea to sign Raheem Sterling on loan
Arsenal could make a late signing from Chelsea before the transfer deadline tonight.
The Gunners have made just two additions to the squad this summer. Riccardo Calafiori and Mikel Merino have joined from Bologna and Real Sociedad respectively.
Merino unfortunately picked up a shoulder injury in training this morning and manager Mikel Arteta has confirmed that he could be out of action for the next few weeks.
Amidst this, BBC Sport’s Nizaar Kinsella has claimed that talks are underway between Arsenal and Chelsea over a loan deal for Raheem Sterling. There is optimism that a deal can be done.
He said: “Arsenal in talks with Chelsea to sign Raheem Sterling on loan. Optimism around this early on.”
Arsenal parted ways with Emile Smith Rowe to Fulham earlier in the transfer window and they are expected to confirm the sale of Eddie Nketiah to Crystal Palace tonight.
The club have also sent Fabio Vieira to Porto on a season-long loan. This has weakened the club’s attacking depth and Arteta may want a trusted deputy before the deadline.
Sterling would fit in perfectly for the role, considering his vast experience and winning mentality.
The England international previously credited Arteta for improving his game at Manchester City and the duo continue to hold a strong relationship off the field despite moving on.
The 29-year-old should be accustomed to Arsenal’s playing style which is somewhat similar to City’s. He would be a handy option to call off the bench to support Bukayo Saka.
While Leandro Trossard and Gabriel Martinelli have competed for places on the left wing, Saka has had no competition from Reiss Nelson on the right. He has generally played 85 minutes plus per game.
The Gunners need to manage Saka’s workload during his prime phase. Sterling would be an ideal back-up with 100 goal contributions from 170 appearances from the right wing in his career.
Sterling is presently on £325,000 per week at Chelsea. Arsenal will most likely want him to accept a 50% pay-cut. We won’t be surprised if the Gunners are reluctant to pay any loan fee.
Stats from Transfermarkt.com & Capology.com
