Raheem Sterling, currently out of favour at Chelsea under Enzo Maresca, is reportedly open to a move to Manchester United this summer.
Despite his uncertain situation at Stamford Bridge, where he has been marginalized, a swap deal involving Jadon Sancho is said to be on the table.
However, this deal may face significant challenges due to Sterling’s ongoing settlement with Chelsea, as reported by journalist Ben Jacobs in an exclusive to GIVEMESPORT.
This summer has seen Erik ten Hag and Manchester United focus on bringing in younger players, with the impending arrival of Manuel Ugarte highlighting their strategy.
However, the experience Sterling could bring, as a four-time Premier League winner, might be vital for the club’s ambitions this season.
A high-profile swap between the two English stars has been suggested, even though both players have been active in their clubs’ pre-season activities.
As Chelsea continues to overhaul its squad, Sterling, who earns £350,000 per week, has been informed by Maresca that his role will be limited, prompting him to seek a move.
Crystal Palace and Aston Villa have shown interest, but Manchester United remains a strong contender.
The Guardian has reported that Sterling, who scored 10 goals and provided eight assists across all competitions last season, is enthusiastic about the prospect of moving to Manchester.
However, United are only prepared to offer the 29-year-old a £150,000-per-week contract, a significant reduction from his current earnings, and a role that would be less prominent.
Speaking to GIVEMESPORT, Ben Jacobs highlighted the possibility of a swap deal, given Chelsea’s interest in Sancho, but noted that such a deal would not be straightforward.
He explained, “Chelsea are open to Sancho, and he’s a player that Joe Shields, in particular, within the Chelsea hierarchy knows very well and endorses. There may be a scenario where Raheem Sterling goes to Manchester United and Sancho goes to Chelsea, and both players are open to that, but there’s a long way to go, particularly dealing with Sterling’s Chelsea settlement and likelihood.”
Meanwhile, Manchester United is also seeking to bolster their attack with a more experienced centre forward.
Ivan Toney has been identified as a potential target, with initial discussions reportedly taking place, though the player’s preference may still lean towards a move to Chelsea, according to Malik Ouzia of The Evening Standard.
The addition of Toney could provide crucial support for United’s young strikers, Rasmus Hojlund and Joshua Zirkzee, as the transfer deadline approaches.
