Aston Villa linked with a move for Chelsea's Raheem Sterling
What's the story
Aston Villa are currently in discussions with Chelsea regarding a potential move for Raheem Sterling.
The 29-year-old winger has been informed that he does not have a future at Stamford Bridge and is actively seeking a new challenge.
Sterling has not been participating in first-team training and is eager to exit Chelsea before the transfer window closes next Friday.
In addition to Aston Villa, fellow Premier League club Newcastle United are also monitoring Sterling's situation.
Contract details
Villa's interest in Sterling amid contract complexities
As per The Guardian, Aston Villa have shown interest in Sterling as they aim to bolster their attacking line-up under Unai Emery.
However, the transfer of the 29-year-old could prove difficult due to his three-year contract with Chelsea, which is worth £325,000 per week.
Despite these potential hurdles, there are indications that Villa might consider a loan deal if they can negotiate terms regarding Sterling's substantial wage packet.
Transfer preference
Sterling's preference for a permanent move
Sterling, whose position at Chelsea has been compromised following the arrivals of Joao Felix and Pedro Neto, has expressed a desire for a permanent move away from the club.
He is prepared to cooperate with Chelsea to find a solution after being informed that he does not feature in Enzo Maresca's plans.
The former Manchester City forward, who transferred to Chelsea for £50m two years ago, is keen on exploring potential opportunities elsewhere.
Magpies
Newcastle are interested in Sterling as well
As per GIVEMESPORT, Newcastle are seriously considering taking advantage of Chelsea's squad overhaul as the closure of the transfer window looms.
Sterling is one of the Chelsea players on manager Eddie Howe's radar as he goes in search of top acquisitions capable of helping his side to European qualification.
Should Sterling make a move to Newcastle, he would add further depth in a strong attacking unit.
Jersey
Sterling's number 7 Chelsea jersey handed to Pedro Neto
Adding to Sterling's woes, Chelsea have reassigned his number seven jersey to recent recruit Neto.
Neto, who initially wore the number 19 shirt in his debut match against Manchester City, will now sport the number seven jersey.
This decision follows Sterling's exclusion from the Chelsea squad for their Premier League opener against Man City last weekend. Chelsea also excluded the player from their European squad.
Maresca
'Sterling is going to struggle to get minutes with us'
Maresca has suggested that Sterling's only chance for regular first-team play this season would be to leave Chelsea and sign with another club.
Ahead of the Europa Conference League match against Servette, Maresca stated, "I spoke with Raheem before Manchester City, I said that he is going to struggle to get minutes with us."
This statement further intensifies speculation about Sterling's imminent departure from the club.
Move
What next for Sterling?
Since joining the club from Man City two seasons ago, Sterling made 59 Premier League appearances, scoring 14 goals and making 7 assists.
As per reports, Sterling wants to stay in the Premier League and a move to Saudi Arabia is not an option for him at the moment.
Sterling, who wasn't in England's Euro 2024 squad, wants to play for his country again. Sterling is one of Chelsea's highest paid players and he may have to lower his demands.