Arsenal are trying to beat the buzzer.
The Gunners are in talks with Chelsea to sign Raheem Sterling on a season-long loan before the transfer window closes at 6 p.m. ET Friday, report David Ornstein and James McNicholas of The Athletic.
The 29-year-old winger has been told in no uncertain terms that he’s not part of new manager Enzo Maresca’s plans at Chelsea this season. Sterling was dropped for the Blues’ first two matches of the Premier League season, prompting him to look at alternative options.
The latest and most concrete is a potential switch to north London.
Sterling hasn’t yet agreed to personal terms with Arsenal, but that’s not expected to be an issue if the two clubs can work out an agreement. The former Liverpool and Manchester City forward is reportedly excited about the prospect of playing for Mikel Arteta’s title-chasing team. Sterling and Arteta worked together at Manchester City and still have a strong relationship.
Sterling was a regular contributor for Chelsea last season, making 31 Premier League appearances and scoring eight goals.
Chelsea leaving Sterling out of the matchday squad for the opening game of the new season blindsided him before Maresca confirmed it was in his best interest to look elsewhere for playing time.
“I am not saying Raheem is not a good player, but I prefer different kinds of wingers,” Maresca said earlier in August.
“We have a big squad, and it’s impossible to give all of them minutes. If they are looking for minutes, it’s better for them to leave. I try to be honest.”
