Chelsea is facing difficulties with the transfer of Raheem Sterling, despite the English midfielder attracting interest from several clubs. The issue arises because Sterling wants to resolve all contract-related matters before considering a move elsewhere.
The exact problem between Sterling and Chelsea is not clear, but according to some sources, the former Liverpool midfielder is unwilling to accept a reduction in salary if he leaves Stamford Bridge. The question is whether Chelsea will agree to help the next club cover part of Sterling’s salary. Another solution for Chelsea could be to persuade Sterling to accept deferred wages. However, it seems that Sterling prefers to receive a lump sum immediately rather than having the remaining amount paid out in the future.
Sterling has no shortage of options, with interest from Arsenal, Juventus, Aston Villa, and Crystal Palace. Manchester United has also expressed a desire to work with the 1994-born player and has proposed a swap deal involving Jadon Sancho for Sterling, but negotiations have not yet shown significant progress.
Currently, Sterling is the highest-paid player at Chelsea, earning a steady £325,000 per week. His contract with the West London club still has three years left to run.
Despite his high salary, Sterling has not been used much in recent matches under new manager Enzo Maresca. The new boss has asked Sterling to train separately and even stripped him of the number 7 shirt, which has been given to new signing Pedro Neto. This move clearly indicates that Maresca has excluded Sterling from his plans.
