Arsenal present ‘attractive’ option for Man City star as huge Premier League transfer moves closer
Arsenal are closing in on the capture of a Man City star as they reportedly present an ‘extremely attractive’ option for him.
There is plenty of transfer history between the two Premier League clubs, especially since Man City’s big-money takeover in 2008. The Citizens’ huge spending power means a number of talented stars have left the Emirates for the Etihad.
The first was Emmanuel Adebayor, who cost the Manchester club £25million back in July 2009. Ivorian centre-back Kolo Toure followed him just ten days later in a £14m deal.
The next transfer raid came in the summer of 2011. City snapped up French left-back Gael Clichy, before completing the signing of Samir Nasri for £25m.
Nasri’s move was arguably the most controversial, as he soon came out to question Arsenal’s level of support.
It’s no surprise that Arsenal are wary of letting another star leave for their English rivals. But recent reports suggest they could get their revenge with the capture of a star winger.
England international Raheem Sterling is reportedly a target for the Gunners. The 26-year-old is keen to leave Pep Guardiola’s side as he is fed up of spending time on the sidelines.
City’s vast attacking options mean he is not always a guaranteed starter. Arsenal reckon they can get the best out of Sterling by making him one of the first names on the team sheet.
According to The Transfer Window podcast’s Ian McGarry, Sterling is open to the switch. “It’s the case that his representatives have met with Man City and are saying their player does not wish to continue or indeed explore an extension on his contract,” McGarry said (via Manchester Evening News).
Arsenal ‘extremely attractive’ for Sterling
“Instead, they would prefer to explore the option of a loan deal, which they would like to begin in the January window. Whether or not that’s possible remains to be seen but there are several interested parties, including Arsenal.
“We know that Sterling himself turned down the opportunity to join Tottenham Hotspur on a permanent basis last summer but the idea of moving back to London, the idea of having the guarantee, almost, of a starting place in another elite Premier League club is extremely attractive to him.”
Sterling has won a host of trophies during his time at City, including three league titles and one FA Cup.
But with the likes of Riyad Mahrez, Jack Grealish and Phil Foden also in the squad, he faces plenty of competition for a starting spot.
Sterling could be taken to north London as a replacement for Nicolas Pepe. The £72m man has fallen down the pecking order under Mikel Arteta and is attracting attention from Milan.
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