Chelsea winger Raheem Sterling would prefer to join Arsenal ahead of Manchester United, according to GiveMeSport.
The website claims that the player sees a move to the Emirates as the “ideal scenario” for both sporting and family reasons.
Sterling is said to feel that he could thrive at the Gunners, who are in a much better position to win trophies than United. The move would also allow him to remain in London.
Manager Mikel Arteta has worked with him before, which is another benefit. The Spaniard was assistant manager at Manchester City for several years and the pair struck up a strong relationship.
There is one big barrier that could stop Sterling from joining Arsenal
The player’s wages could be a stumbling block. He is currently earning £325,000 a week at Chelsea and he would not get a salary close to that figure if he makes the switch across London.
GiveMeSport claim that Arsenal are only willing to pay Sterling £150,000 a week, which is under half what he is on at Stamford Bridge.
It is important to point out that Manchester United are not in a position to match Sterling’s wage either, so he would have to accept a pay cut no matter which team he joins before the transfer window closes.
Neville has spoken out against the winger’s transfer to the Emirates
Gary Neville has questioned why Arsenal are looking to sign Sterling, considering he prefers to play on the left flank. The Sky Sports pundit says that Arteta already has plenty of players who can be deployed in that position:
“Arsenal have Jesus, Martinelli and Trossard who can play on that left side. They have Saka on the right side, who is so reliable and ever-present. It doesn’t strike me as being something which makes sense.”
