Chelsea have set their stall out to sign Raheem Sterling and that move would mark the end of an era. Seven years have passed since the England forward moved to the Etihad Stadium and, during that time, he has played a crucial part in Manchester City dominating the domestic scene.
With four Premier League titles and five League Cup medals to show for his efforts - plus the FA Cup in 2019 - the only prize which evades Sterling is the one Pep Guardiola and his star-studded team continue to strive for. Sterling and the gang came so, so close to Champions League glory in each of the past two campaigns.
Incidentally, it was Chelsea who stopped City at the final hurdle in Porto the season before last and the Londoners have gone heavy-handed in their pursuit for the 27-year-old. It has to be said, though, they have been respectful as well with new owner Todd Boehly making direct contact with City for a valuation.
We want to know how City fans feel about Sterling's proposed switch so comment below.
It is understood that Sterling could become a Chelsea player as soon as this week as City opt to cash-in on a man whose contract expires in 12 months. A fee around the £50million will be required for his services and a benchmark has already been set with Gabriel Jesus and his proposed £45m switch to Arsenal.
Those deals come as part of an attacking shake-up from Guardiola after bringing in Julian Alvarez and Norway goal machine Erling Haaland. Beyond that, City are closing in on signing England playmaker Kalvin Phillips and that spells an ominous sign when it comes to the would-be contenders for their Premier League crown.
However, should Sterling go on to complete his move to Chelsea, that too would strengthen one rival even if City will respect his wish for a new challenge. He is set to leave having played 339 games for the club with 113 goals and 95 assists coming in that time.
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