Barcelona are reportedly considering a January move for 26-year-old English international Raheem Sterling on a short-term loan deal.
According to a report by Spanish publication SPORT, Barcelona have not given up in pursuit of Raheem Sterling despite failing to sign him in the summer transfer window. The Catalan giants are set to make another move for the 26-year-old English international when the transfer market reopens in January.
Raheem Sterling has transformed into a powerhouse of an attacking player since joining Manchester City from Liverpool in the summer of 2015. A promising young winger who was quite wasteful in front of goal has turned into a prolific attacker, although some of his old traits have been resurfacing of late.
To date, the 26-year-old has made 298 appearances for Manchester City, with 115 goals and 87 assists to show for his efforts. While his role might have reduced a little, Sterling remains a key player for the English national side, having played a major role in their run to the UEFA Euro 2020 final. That is perhaps why Barcelona have been keen on signing him for some time now.
Barcelona bolstered their attack a fair bit in the summer transfer window, signing Memphis Depay, Sergio Aguero and Luuk de Jong. With Depay already proving to be a fine addition, it is hard to see how making a move for Sterling will be a prudent move.
That is because Ansu Fati is making his way back from injury and will be a big part of Barcelona’s long-term future. In addition, the Blaugrana seem to be keen on tying Ousmane Dembele down to a new deal, which suggests they intend on keeping hold of the Frenchman as well.
So, unless Dembele is offloaded by Barcelona, Sterling might find it difficult to be the resounding first-choice for the Catalan giants, although the French international’s iffy fitness situation will likely keep the 26-year-old in contention. Nevertheless, after failing to sign him in the summer, Barcelona are set to launch the offensive for the English international again in January.
Also Read: Barcelona Summer Transfer Window Verdict 2021/22
What now remains to be seen is if Barcelona can convince Manchester City to part ways with Sterling in the winter, that too on a loan move. Signing him permanently might well be out of question, considering City will demand a sizeable sum in his exchange.
