The 27-year-old is expected to undergo a medical in the coming days, with Chelsea hopeful a deal can be completed in time to allow the England forward to join the club’s pre-season tour of the United States. Sterling has remained Chelsea’s top target this summer, although the Blues have been heavily linked with Leeds striker Rafinha and Brazilian Richarlison. Sterling has agreed personal terms on a five-year contract with an option for a further 12 months. Sterling joined City from Liverpool for an initial fee of £49m in July 2015 and has been instrumental in their success under Pep Guardiola. He has won four Premier League titles, one FA Cup and three League Cups at the Etihad Stadium and scored 131 goals in 339 appearances for the Premier League champions. Image: Sterling scored 13 goals in the Premier League last season Sterling would offer Tuchel a guaranteed threat – he has directly contributed 165 league goals in 320 appearances for Liverpool and City – as well as tactical flexibility and experience. The 27-year-old believes he is in the defining phase of his career and wants to make a significant contribution on and off the pitch. That City can offload two strikers to members of the ‘Big Six’ – Gabriel Jesus to Arsenal for £45m and Sterling to Stamford Bridge – without fear is a sign of their steady recruitment and the gap between clubs.
City and Chelsea in talks for Ake
Chelsea and Manchester City are also in talks over a deal for Nathan Ake. Chelsea are in need of defenders after the departures of Andreas Christensen and Antonio Rudiger this summer. The Blues have shown an interest in Juventus centre-back Matthijs de Ligt, but Sky Germany report that the defender wants to move to Bayern Munich this summer. Ake, 27, left Chelsea for Bournemouth in 2017 after an initial loan spell before a £40million move to City two years ago. The Dutch centre-back saw his playing time limited at the Etihad, playing in just 14 Premier League games for Pep Guardiola’s side last season.
Follow the summer transfer window with Sky Sports
Who will be on the move this summer before the transfer window closes at 11pm on September 1st? Keep up to date with all the latest transfer news and rumors on our exclusive Transfer Center blog on Sky Sports’ digital platforms. You can also catch up on the information and analysis on Sky Sports News.
