Man Utd ‘open talks’ with Chelsea over Raheem Sterling deal

Sterling has been frozen out and encouraged to depart via Chelsea, who even handed his shirt wide variety to new signing Pedro Netro, and the 29-12 months-vintage is now keen to find a permanent move away from Stamford Bridge before Friday’s transfer cut-off date.

Hypothesis of a switch deal related to United’s Jadon Sancho has been rife on social media and it recently emerged that Sterling could be interested by a pass to old Trafford.

It is claimed that United will only pursue a deal if Sancho is involved, with the Red Devils eyeing a straight swap instead of paying a fee for Sterling.

Complicating things for both clubs is Sterling’s current contract, which is worth over £300,000 per week.

He is currently in talks with Chelsea over the three years remaining on his deal, with the Blues expected to pay part of his salary at any club Sterling joins before the deadline.

Chelsea are long-term admirers of Sancho, who has been identified as a possible reinforcement for Enzo Maresca’s new-look forward line.

He has previously admitted to growing up as a Chelsea fan and idolising both Frank Lampard and Didier Drogba.

The Athletic add Sancho is likely to depart United this week and, alongside Chelsea, talks are also ongoing with Juventus over the 24-year-old’s future.

Chelsea would like to include a player in their pursuit of Sancho and Sterling is seen as the most feasible candidate as it stands, despite the complication of his high wages.

Both players have yet to even make the bench for their respective clubs in the Premier League this season as United and Chelsea seek to find new homes for their wingers.