Sources: Raheem Sterling update as Newcastle eye January transfer
A move for Raheem Sterling is “not a priority” for Newcastle in the January transfer window, sources have told Football Insider.
Eddie Howe is blessed with options in the likes of Anthony Gordon, Harvey Barnes and Jacob Murphy in the wide areas, and as a result, a move for Sterling is viewed as an unlikely possibility.
Former Manchester United chief scout Mick Brown recently told Football Insider that Newcastle have considered a move for Sterling in January, but sources have now indicated that their interest is highly unlikely to go beyond the initial stage.
Chelsea and Sterling are both open to all options when it comes to a potential exit, with the West Londoners especially keen to get him off their wage bill.
Newcastle have no need to take on Raheem Sterling’s wage demands
Former Manchester City financial advisor Stefan Borson recently told Football Insider that Chelsea may need to subsidise Sterling’s exit from Stamford Bridge, given his heavy wages at present.
The finances of a potential move for the winger are causing issues for several clubs, and while Chelsea are open to a loan deal, a permanent sale is their clear preference.
However, that means any potential buyer will likely have to shoulder the entire burden of Sterling’s wages, which is something that Newcastle seem reluctant to do right now.
Gordon, Barnes and Murphy have all produced effectively for the Magpies so far this term, and they also have Anthony Elanga waiting in the wings and struggling to get into the starting XI at the moment.
A move for Sterling would expand that group of widemen even further, and that is something that Howe and Co. have no desire to do in the mid-season window.
Leeds and West Ham weigh up Raheem Sterling transfer
Brown also told Football Insider in December that Leeds are contemplating a move for Sterling this winter, while interest from West Ham has also been well-publicised.
The 31-year-old’s departure from Stamford Bridge is seen as an inevitability, given that he has been part of the Blues’ ‘bomb squad’ for several months and seemingly has no way back into the fold.
Daniel Farke and Co. could be prepared to hand him a way out in January, but any Chelsea exit may require Sterling to take a pay cut, according to former Everton chief executive Keith Wyness.
As a result, while there are several avenues developing for Sterling to potentially get away from Chelsea, any transfer this winter may hinge on the level of his own desire to play football.