City forward not expected to join Arsenal even if he leaves

The Athletic’s David Ornstein reports that Raheem Sterling is not understood to have held any talks over his next steps, but if he did leave Manchester City, he’s expressed no desire to join Arsenal or Tottenham Hotspur.

Sterling’s commitment to City is reportedly strong, and a new deal isn’t off the table yet.

Recent reports had suggested Arsenal would strongly consider a move for Sterling this summer, if he didn’t extend his Manchester City contract and the Gunners qualify for Champions League football.

But Fabrizio Romano reports that City are planning contract negotiations, with Pep Guardiola keen to keep the winger.

“For Raheem Sterling everything will depend on the contract: Manchester City would like to extend it as soon as possible,” Romano said.

“Pep Guardiola wants Sterling to stay – but the negotiations are still not easy. There will be a new direct contact this month.

“From my perspective, it makes sense that City could sell Jesus but keep Sterling.”

Sterling currently only has a contract with Manchester City until 2023, and he’s stalling on a new deal until the end of the season.

The winger is having another strong season with his current club, scoring 17 goals and assisting seven.

He’s now scored double figures in all competitions in every single season since 2013/14, reaching 20 goals in three of those seasons and 31 goals in his best campaign in 2019/20.