Premier League Rumors: Manchester City Belittles Manchester United Plans For Sterling

Manchester City is technically banned from the Champions League although an appeal is on the table. But unless UEFA overturns its decision, players like Raheem Sterling could be missing out playing European football set to be held later this month. If he cannot get that opportunity with Manchester City, rival Manchester United could use that to convince him to move to Old Trafford.

However, a move by Sterling to United will not be easy. Also interested in the 25-year-old winger is Real Madrid. But according to reports, the English midfielder would likely transfer to Bernabeu over Old Trafford if he does decide to leave City. The interest in Sterling is understandable. This season, he has scored 11 goals in 24 appearances under the watch of Pep Guardiola. But all these murmurs have not scathed City. They have no intention of dealing away Sterling whose deal runs until 2023. However, financial issues could play a factor and force the Sky Blues to reconsider.

Sterling is valued at $251 million and ranks alongside the likes of Neymar and Kylian Mbappe. It would take a huge amount to get the deal done. It could be one of the reasons why City is confident that Sterling is unlikely to be lost. Further, they may be more worried about Real rather than their rivals.

United has been linked to several players, targets that could aid Ole Gunnar Solskjaer this season. They have already settled the issue with Odion Ighalo who will now stay with the Red Devils until January 2021. Solskjaer is believed to be looking for more players who can play alongside Harry Maguire. Among the targets linked to the Red Devils include Jadon Sancho, Jack Grealish and Joe Rodon.

United is currently at fifth spot of the Premier League table behind Chelsea F.C. They can move up in the standings but are practically assured of a Champions League spot with City banned by UEFA. Hence, Solskjaer is making trying to make sure he approaches that with the proper manpower. Aside from Ighalo and the targets he has in mind, Marcus Rashford and Paul Pogba could be back in action once the season resumes later this month.