Manchester City have also told Arsenal that Raheem Sterling will not be part of any deal to sign Alexis Sanchez, according to Guillem Balague.
Earlier this week, it was reported that Arsenal had asked for a player to be included in part exchange for the 28-year-old. Raheem Sterling was the name mentioned, and the winger was said to be open to the idea.
However since then, City have returned with a pure-cash offer and have no interest in sending any players Arsenal’s way. That’s according to Spanish journalist Guillem Balague, who went into detail about why Sterling won’t be joining the London club.
1. More detail on Sterling. When he heard he could be part of swap deal for Alexis, he rang Pep and was told City did not doubt for a second
— Guillem Balague (@GuillemBalague) August 31, 2017
2. Sterling was told he is fundamental for City and Arsenal were told they were not interested in including him in any deal
— Guillem Balague (@GuillemBalague) August 31, 2017
Should Alexis move to City, Sterling’s game-time would be cut even further, I feel. Although he started plenty of games last season, this year he may spend more time on the bench due to City’s attacking options.
They already signed Bernardo Silva from Monaco, while Guardiola has also played without wingers to accommodate Gabriel Jesus. Now the Arsenal man could be soon added to mix. It does, though, seem clear that they have no interest in letting Sterling during this window.
The Gunners will now have to look for a replacement elsewhere.