Arsenal twist emerges on West Ham United target Sterling as Chelsea stance revealed
Arsenal have now been offered the chance to sign Chelsea attacker Raheem Sterling, who’s been linked with West Ham, Newcastle and Aston Villa, according to HITC.
The news outlet reported on 23 August that even Crystal Palace have shown an interest in securing the services of the England international.
The Hammers, who have been linked with the 29-year-old, are understood to be exploring other options ahead of the transfer deadline.
Sterling is set to leave the Blues before 30 August after being frozen out by the club and manager Enzo Maresca.
West Ham are wise not to sign Raheem Sterling ahead of Arsenal or Crystal Palace
The Hammers’ decision not to pursue Sterling might be more strategic than it appears on the surface.
First off, Sterling’s hefty wages could unbalance the team’s salary structure, potentially leading to discord in the dressing room.
Moreover, at 29, Sterling doesn’t fit into the youthful squad rebuild trend that many clubs, including West Ham, are leaning towards.
His recent form has been inconsistent, which might not guarantee the immediate impact the Irons need, especially considering the financial outlay his signing would demand.
Also, with Sterling’s style of play, there’s a risk he might not gel with Julen Lopetegui’s tactical setup, which could require time and adjustments the club might not afford.
The interest from other clubs like Crystal Palace and Newcastle and now Arsenal suggests there’s still a market for Sterling, allowing the Hammers to gracefully bow out, focusing on targets that align better with their long-term vision, wage structure, and immediate team dynamics.
In other West Ham news, the Hammers are now in talks over a long-term contract for their next new signing.
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