In a groundbreaking move, Arsenal and Chelsea are set to split the cost of Raheem Sterling’s wages during his loan spell at the Emirates Stadium. The much-anticipated deal has yet to receive official confirmation, but both clubs have reportedly submitted a deal sheet to extend the transfer deadline.
As fans eagerly await an announcement, details surrounding the financial terms of Sterling’s move are starting to surface. According to BBC Sport’s Nizaar Kinsella, Arsenal will not be required to pay Chelsea a loan fee for Sterling. This development signifies a major victory for the Gunners, who successfully navigated negotiations on deadline day.
Furthermore, Arsenal will only be responsible for a portion of Sterling’s £325,000-per-week wages, with Chelsea stepping in to cover the remainder for the duration of his season-long loan. This arrangement comes as a relief for Chelsea, as manager Enzo Maresca made it clear that Sterling was not in his plans for the current season.
The decision to offload Sterling’s wages will save Chelsea over £150,000 per week, although they will still be footing a significant bill for a player now linked with a fierce Premier League rival. Sterling’s reunion with Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta adds another layer of intrigue to the deal, as the pair previously worked together at Manchester City.
During his two-year stint at Chelsea, Sterling made a notable impact, scoring 19 goals in 81 appearances across all competitions. As the North London club prepares to welcome the versatile forward, the football world is buzzing with anticipation for his contributions in the upcoming season.