Arsenal looking to sign Raheem Sterling? Mikel Arteta gives strong reply on Rumours

Add as a preferred source on Google

Raheem Sterling has found himself down the pecking order at Chelsea and it looks like the Blues will accept bids for the player.

Chelsea's new boss Enzo Maresca doesn't have Sterling in his plans, which was clear as the 29-year-old didn't even make the bench against Manchester City in the opening match of the Premier League.

Sterling was also not included in the UEFA Conference League squad, indicating his status at the club. Amid this, many clubs have been linked with a move for Sterling, who still is a decent footballer.

Chelsea have informed Sterling that he can leave before the transfer deadline. The club has taken drastic measures by stripping him of his squad number and making him train separately from the first team. It is understood that Sterling is now maintaining his fitness away from Chelsea's Cobham training facility.

Amid this, Arsenal have been linked with a move for the Chelsea man. The Gunners are in need of a frontman and many publications speculated that Sterling may have North London calling as he looks for a way out of Chelsea.

Are Arsenal in for Raheem Sterling?

Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta was asked about the potential prospect of signing Raheem Sterling, but the Spaniard has denied about making a move. Although Arteta won't bring Sterling at the Emirates, he spoke highly about the former Liverpool ace during their time at Manchester City.

"No, but I can talk about my time with Raheem. It was exceptional, we built a really strong relationship together," Arteta stated.

He praised Sterling's performance during their time together and acknowledged the learning experience it provided.

"He was unbelievable at the time we were together and he taught me a lot as well. About individuals, how they play and how we give them support and help them. He's someone I have a really strong feeling about," he added.

Why moving on Sterling will be difficult for Chelsea?

If Chelsea don't find any suitors for Sterling, moving the England international on will be a difficult thing for the London club.

Sterling's hefty weekly wage of £300,000 poses a significant challenge for any potential transfer away from Chelsea. The England player still has three years left on his five-year contract signed in 2022. This means Chelsea might need to cover part of the remaining £45 million owed to him.