Arsenal is engaged in negotiations with Chelsea to secure Raheem Sterling on loan ahead of the transfer window’s closure. The 29-year-old winger has fallen out of favor at Stamford Bridge, prompting Arsenal to pursue a temporary season-long arrangement.
Should both clubs reach an agreement, Sterling will still need to finalize personal terms, although this is not expected to be a significant hurdle in the process. The prospect of joining Arsenal is reportedly appealing to the former Liverpool and Manchester City player, who is looking to improve his playing time after being sidelined at Chelsea.
With Chelsea opting for new attacking signings, Sterling’s chances for first-team action have diminished. A move to Arsenal offers him an opportunity to rejuvenate his season, especially as the club aims for domestic trophies and Champions League participation in the 2024-25 season.
This potential transfer would also reestablish a connection between Sterling and Arsenal’s manager Mikel Arteta, with whom he shares a positive working history from their time at Manchester City.
Sterling had been a consistent presence under Chelsea’s previous coach Mauricio Pochettino but found himself overlooked by current head coach Enzo Maresca after the team added several new attacking players this summer. Maresca has indicated a preference for different types of wingers, leading to Sterling’s omission from the matchday squad.
A seasoned Premier League titleholder, Sterling has won four league titles and an FA Cup since joining Manchester City in 2015. Despite his achievements, he has not featured for the England national team since the 2022 World Cup.
On the transfer front, Arsenal has already added three players to their squad this summer, including the permanent signing of goalkeeper David Raya, defender Riccardo Calafiori from Bologna, and midfielder Mikel Merino from Real Sociedad.
Sterling’s potential addition to Arsenal could enhance the team’s attacking dynamics. Throughout his career, he has shown versatility in adapting his playing style to fit various managerial strategies. His most prolific years coincided with Arteta’s tenure at Manchester City, where he excelled in finding the back of the net from specific attacking positions, a style that aligns with Arteta’s approach.
Moreover, bringing Sterling into the fold would intensify competition for positions, particularly with Gabriel Martinelli. The arrival of Calafiori also promises to offer more opportunities for one-on-one situations, benefiting both wide forwards. This move could also allow Leandro Trossard to contribute centrally as a false nine, providing Arsenal with additional depth in that area without incurring extra costs, as Sterling is capable of playing in a more central role as well.