Transfer insider Dean Jones has provided an update on the future of Raheem Sterling at Manchester City.
The performances of Sterling and his development under Pep Guardiola has arguably been one of the biggest success stories from the Spaniard’s time in charge at the club, best demonstrated by his four consecutive seasons of scoring double digits in Premier League goals, as well as racking up 77 assists since the manager’s arrival.
But underneath all the success on the pitch, there appears to be some tension off it between the two, as a report from The Athletic reveals, noting that Sterling “would be keen on a move this summer if the opportunity arises”.
He has reportedly had some interest from Barcelona, and speaking on the latest edition of Touchline Talk, Jones seemed to confirm that there was a chance that he could leave, but that he ultimately felt that the England winger would ultimately end up staying in Manchester:
“The links to Raheem Sterling leaving, there’s definitely something there and I think we’ve reached a point for the first time, Raheem Sterling’s had to consider what he does.
“He’s always had like an urge to go and play in La Liga if he could, I don’t think that door’s going to open for him. The most likely thing that happens here, I think, is that Raheem Sterling signs a new contract before next season and that Man City go again with him and hopefully another forward that can help take them to that Champions League title they want.”
TIF Thoughts on Dean Jones’ comments about Raheem Sterling…
Should Manchester City sell Sterling?
Would be crazy to
Time to go
Given what Sterling can bring to the table for Manchester City, even if his minutes were somewhat limited towards the end of the season, they would be foolish to let someone of his incredible talent walk out the door, especially to a Champions League rival where he could come back to haunt them in the future.
So hopefully Jones’ prediction ends up being correct with Sterling and Guardiola making up and the winger signing a new contract, because that is where his value lies with them – on the pitch, rather than in their bank account.
In other news: “I can’t imagine Pep regretting it” – Exclusive: Pundit drops Man City transfer verdict