Chelsea are expected to make a formal bid for Raheem Sterling ‘imminently’ after Manchester City have rejected their initial bid, according to reports.
The England international is ready to put an end to a fine spell in Manchester, where he lifted four Premier League titles at the Etihad.
With the Blues willing to listen to offers for attacking trio Timo Werner, Christian Pulisic and Hakim Ziyech this summer and Romelu Lukaku set to depart for Inter Milan, Chelsea are in the market for attacking reinforcements.
Advert
Sam Lee of the Athletic has recently stated that a deal is ‘done’, with the Blues set to land their man.
He revealed: "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."
Advert
Now, several sources have now reported Chelsea will make a formal approach for Sterling.
The Telegraph first reported that the Blues are in talks over a move for the winger, with a formal bid expected ‘imminently’.
Fabrizio Romano then stated that Man City are open to the sale and ready to negotiate, with Chelsea’s initial ‘offer’ being rejected.
The new proposal is expected ‘soon’ as Chelsea have already discussed personal terms with the England star.
Advert
Chelsea are hoping that a bid of £45 million will be enough to sign the star, as reported by Ben Jacobs.
The journalist continued to reveal that Man City would like ‘a bit more’ for a deal to be complete but Sterling is open to the move.
Furthermore, Jack Gaughan of the Daily Mail has revealed that a formal approach has already been made, with a bid coming soon.
Advert
The report states that Todd Boehly made contact with the Citizen’s on Monday with a view to wrapping up a deal over the coming week.
The quoted valuation is said to be £55 million, with Chelsea hoping to negotiate for a cheaper deal.
Sterling has one year left on his current contract in Manchester, and Chelsea could look to use this to their advantage in negotiations.
With a formal bid expected in the next few days, Tuchel comes closer to sealing his first signing of the summer.
Advert
The Boehly-Clearlake Capital consortium are keen to get off to a bright start in their first transfer window.
The new owners will be looking to challenge at the top of the Premier League, hoping Sterling can help with their trophy dreams.
It remains to be seen as to whether a deal can be struck quickly, with Chelsea also looking for defensive reinforcements this summer.
Featured Image Credit: AlamyTopics: Chelsea, Chelsea Transfer News & Rumours, Manchester City, Raheem Sterling, Football, Premier League, Transfers