Gary Neville has given his verdict on Raheem Sterling’s future as the Chelsea forward continues to be linked with a deadline day move to Arsenal and Manchester United.
Sterling’s future with Chelsea is uncertain after he was left out of the squad for their Premier League opener against Manchester City.
The 29-year-old winger, reportedly earning around £300,000 per week, was considered a key player by Enzo Maresca during pre-season. However, he has been instructed to train separately from the main squad as Maresca looks to reduce the number of players.
Even though Sterling has three years left on his contract, it seems he might leave Stamford Bridge, with several clubs reportedly interested in him. On Friday morning, Fabrizio Romano reported that Arsenal was ‘internally discussing’ a move for Sterling as the deadline approached.
Gary Neville has weighed in on the situation, expressing doubt about the need for Sterling at either Arsenal or Manchester United. Neville, who worked closely with Sterling during his time with England, questioned the logic of Manchester United pursuing Sterling, given their current players in similar positions.
Neville also points out that Arsenal already have plenty of options on the left wing, noting: “Arsenal have Jesus, Martinelli, and Trossard who can play on the left, while Saka is a dependable presence on the right.”
He adds that the situation at Chelsea suggests they are keen to offload Sterling, stating, “Given recent events, it seems Chelsea is eager to move him on. Sterling won’t be easily pressured into a move; if it doesn’t suit him, he might stay. Chelsea might end up having to work with him for at least the next six months.”
Neville concludes that the links to Arsenal and Manchester United seem illogical, asserting, “While Sterling would enhance those teams, they already have sufficient strength in those positions.”