Sterling to ‘give Sunderland something different’ after ‘disastrous’ Arsenal situation
Raheem Sterling looks set to leave Chelsea this summer, with a move to Sunderland mooted.
The Black Cats have already bolstered their forward line this summer, but another winger is still being considered with Romaine Mundle out injured.
A deal for Armand Lauriente fell through earlier in the window after terms were agreed, and there has been a lack of movement on that front since.
However, having previously been mooted for a move to Sunderland, Sterling’s exit from Stamford Bridge could be nearing.
This story includes exclusive comment from Arsenal legend Alan Smith.
What has been said about Sterling’s next move?
Sterling certainly has no future at Chelsea, with Sunderland among the clubs to have been linked with a move for the English international, albeit rather tentatively.
However, Alan Smith thinks the 30-year-old could thrive in a different environment from the one he has been used to, with Fulham also keen.
In quotes provided to Mackem News by BestBettingSites, Smith said: “He’s a bit of a strange one, Sterling. You expected him to produce a lot more at Arsenal than he did. It was a disastrous loan spell.
“And then you think, well, he’s only 30, but is that hunger, that motivation still there to do it? I’m not saying it isn’t, but he looked lost soul, really, in Arsenal colours.
| Arsenal | Games | Goals | Assists |
| Sterling | 28 | 1 | 5 |
He’s still got a good few years. I know he started early; he’s got a lot of miles on the clock, perhaps, in his career.
“But I’m sure he wouldn’t want it to fizzle out, so go to a club like Sunderland, it’s a situation he wouldn’t be used to either, where you’re not getting so much of the ball, but maybe – who knows? It could be a fit; he could give them something different.“
Sterling would be a remarkable signing for Black Cats
It isn’t likely to happen, but Sterling, or a player of his profile, would be an outstanding addition to a side in a similar situation to Sunderland.
However, having spent his entire career at the top of the Premier League, it remains to be seen whether the winger is willing to take on a new challenge.
As for Sunderland, they will be hoping to accelerate their search for another attacking arrival ahead of the Premier League campaign.
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