S Poddar
Manchester United are reportedly considering a deal for Raheem Sterling, but it could turn out that the arrangement will spell a pay cut from his £300,000-a-week-old deal. Yesterday, it was reported that with ongoing talks between Chelsea and United, an actual swap between the clubs was thrown into the possible deal as Chelsea wants Jadon Sancho on a permanent deal in return for Sterling to team up with United.
Sterling is currently earning £325,000 a week at Chelsea, one of the club’s highest earners, but he is out of plans at Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca. The Blues are keen to ship him out before the window closes, and that has led to the talks with Manchester United.
In the meantime, Sancho looked destined to Juventus-the clubs reportedly having agreed on a loan deal with obligation for purchasing him. However, developments of the last hours seem to tip the preference of Sancho towards Chelsea, while he is waiting for the Blues to finalize agreement with Manchester United.
As part of the deal, Manchester United would be willing to offer Sterling a pay cut. In return, United would offer a weekly wage of £150,000, as earlier reported, which is very much low compared to what he enjoys at Chelsea. This would come with an understanding that Sterling accepts his status as a mere squad player and not first choice.
Sterling’s future at Chelsea has been in limbo, with reports in recent days suggesting he has not trained with the team as he pushes for a move. Despite the very lucrative contract offer from Manchester United, Sterling may be loath to accept such a significant cut in pay.
It would probably come in as a backup for Marcus Rashford, who has had a torrid start to the campaign, before being fully incorporated into first-team action. Sterling can offer them options on the right wing or playing as a false nine, adding a new dimension to United’s attack.
Of either player’s future, though, little remains certain. This is a situation that both players find themselves in, and exactly where it goes from here, ahead of the transfer deadline, may remain unclear for now.
