Chelsea boss Thomas Tuchel has handed first-team assurances to Raheem Sterling ahead of his move from Manchester City, according to reports.
The 27-year-old has a year left on his deal at the Etihad and looks certain to make a move this summer.
Speaking on the ‘Why Always Us Podcast’, Sam Lee of the Athletic hinted that a deal had already been completed.
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He said: "I was speaking to somebody last week who reckons (Gabriel) Jesus (to Arsenal) and Sterling are both done.
“We're all very cautious of that word done in the transfer industry because it could mean anything, but it certainly seems to be where that one is heading."
Scoring 91 Premier League goals in 225 appearances, Sterling played a key part as his side lifted four domestic league titles during his time in Manchester.
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With the signings of Erling Haaland and Julian Alvarez, the England star is looking for first team football.
It has now been revealed that Tuchel has handed assurances to Sterling ahead of a transfer.
As reported by the Evening Standard, Tuchel has assured Sterling that he will be a key player at Chelsea if he signs for the club.
A formal bid to Manchester City is expected on Tuesday or Wednesday as the Blues seek their first signing of the transfer window.
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Chelsea are hoping that a bid of £45 million will be enough to sign the star, as reported by Ben Jacobs.
However, Man City are said to be looking for over £50 million for the 27-year-old as they could sell to a rival.
Todd Boehly has already discussed a move with those at Man City, asking how much they would like for the player before submitting a bid. Tuchel previously admitted his frustrations with his attackers last season, admitting that he could look to make changes this summer and looks like he could get his wish with Sterling arriving.
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“If we stick to the group then we will try to solve it with these players." he said.
"Is it necessary to bring more offensive players around the box to create more distractions, to create more space for each other? We will ask that question.
"Can we do better in the structure? Can we push the players more? Did we rotate too much? Let’s see.
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“There are a lot of options.
"The numbers we produce from our offensive players don’t allow us to over-perform and we need over-performance if we want to be nearer to the top two teams.”
With Sterling now handed assurances, the transfer should be a fairly simple one as Boehly looks to seal a deal and become active in the market.
Other targets will be pursued once the City star makes his way to London this summer.
Featured Image Credit: AlamyTopics: Chelsea, Chelsea Transfer News & Rumours, Raheem Sterling, Manchester City, Transfers, Football, Thomas Tuchel