Raheem Sterling Confirms Desire To Leave Manchester City As Chelsea Make Official Contact

Manchester City forward Raheem Sterling has confirmed his desire to leave the club this summer, according to a new report.

The 27-year-old is entering the final year of his contract at the Etihad Stadium and was in and out of Pep Guardiola's starting XI last season.

With Erling Haaland and Julian Alvarez already in through the door, the England international is seeking assurances over regular minutes ahead of the World Cup in Qatar later this year.

Raheem Sterling in action for Manchester City against Atletico Madrid at the Etihad Stadium (Image: Alamy)

Chelsea have been heavily linked with a sensational swoop for the former Liverpool star in recent weeks as part of a major reshuffle at Stamford Bridge this summer.

Thomas Tuchel has made Sterling a top target and has held positive talks with the forward, who is keen on joining forces with the Blues boss at Stamford Bridge next season.

As Sterling weighs up his options amid ongoing discussions with Etihad Stadium officials, there has been a significant development concerning the Manchester City attacker's future.

Raheem Sterling has just one year left on his contract at Manchester City amid links with Chelsea (Image: Alamy)

As per a new report by Jack Gaughan and Adrian Kajumba of The Daily Mail, Chelsea have made formal contact with the Premier League champions to complete the signing of Raheem Sterling in the coming week.

It has been revealed Sterling indicated his desire to leave City in talks with the club's hierarchy earlier this month.

Chelsea owner Todd Boehly, who will have to pay £55 million for Sterling, is keen on making a statement signing following his takeover of the west London club.

Todd Boehly watching Chelsea from the stands (Image: Alamy)

A formal bid is expected to be made in the days to follow as Chelsea invest in their attack after letting record signing Romelu Lukaku return to Inter on a season-long loan.

Chelsea are yet to agree personal terms with Raheem Sterling, who has won four Premier League titles during his time at the Etihad Stadium.

City have given Sterling time to consider his options and will handle an exit in a respectful manner, with Chelsea serious in their bid to sign the star winger.

Sources at Manchester City, Chelsea and close to Sterling's camp believe a move is likely to go through in the coming weeks.