Sterling will become Chelsea’s first signing of the Todd Boehly era
Raheem Sterling is set to become Chelsea’s first signing of the Todd Boehly era after he agreed terms ahead of his move from Manchester City.
The Telegraph have reported that the two clubs are hoping to agree a fee within the next 24 hours so that Sterling can link up with Thomas Tuchel’s squad before they fly out for their pre-season tour of the US.
Chelsea are set to pay in the region of £45m for the England international – the same amount Arsenal paid for Gabriel Jesus – with Sterling in the final year of his contract at City.
Sterling has enjoyed a decorated career at Man City.
Sterling joined the Citizens from Liverpool for a fee of £49m in 2015. In his seven years at the club, Sterling has won four Premier League titles, one FA Cup and five League Cups while also finding himself at the top of the scoring charts consistently.
Should the move go through Sterling will become the highest paid player at the club after Romelu Lukaku was sent on loan to Inter Milan ahead of the new season.
The 27-year-old is keen to be playing regularly in the build-up to the World Cup this winter and has found himself falling out of contention under Pep Guardiola in recent times at the Etihad Stadium.
Chelsea want to reinforce their attacking options
A move to Stamford Bridge would allow Sterling to continue to compete for trophies and play European football too, as well as significantly bolster Tuchel’s attacking options, something that Chelsea lacked last season.
Chelsea are also still waiting to hear on their approach from Leeds United’s Raphinha, although it is believed he favours a move to Barcelona, while the Blues also look to prioritise signing a centre-back.
