Aston Villa reportedly rule themselves out of the race to sign Chelsea attacker Raheem Sterling, who is likely to depart before the summer transfer deadline.
Aston Villa have reportedly ruled out a potential move for Chelsea winger Raheem Sterling.
The former Manchester City attacker is currently searching for a new club after being deemed surplus to requirements at Stamford Bridge.
The 29-year-old took part in Chelsea’s pre-season schedule but was a notable absentee for the club’s opening Premier League against game Man City.
Sterling’s representatives subsequently released a statement stating they wanted “clarity” about his role at the club.
Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca has since stated that Sterling does not feature in his plans because he “prefers a different kind of winger”.
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Villa rule out Sterling move
Sterling needs to find a new club before Friday’s transfer deadline or he will risk not playing any competitive football until the January transfer window.
Aston Villa are among the clubs who have been mooted as a potential destination for Sterling, who is believed to be keen to remain in the Premier League.
However, according to The Athletic, Villa have no ‘firm interest’ in Sterling and are not planning to make a move before the transfer deadline.
The report also claims that Sterling is looking to resolve his contract situation with Chelsea before he focuses on finding a new club.
Sterling has three years left to run on his £300,000 a week contract and there is seemingly a question as to whether Chelsea would owe him money if he took a pay-cut at his next club.
![Chelsea FC forward Raheem Sterling (7) takes a shot as Club America defender Cristian Calderon (18) defends during the friendly between Chelsea FC and Club America on July 31, 2024 [on August 9, 2024]](https://sm.imgix.net/24/32/raheem-sterling.jpg?w=640&h=480&auto=compress,format&fit=clip "Chelsea FC forward Raheem Sterling (7) takes a shot as Club America defender Cristian Calderon (18) defends during the friendly between Chelsea FC and Club America on July 31, 2024 [on August 9, 2024]")
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What are Sterling’s alternative options?
The winger has been linked with a move to Manchester United, with Chelsea believed to be considering whether to use him in a deal to sign Jadon Sancho.
Sterling would not out a potential move to Old Trafford despite spending seven years representing their local rivals Manchester City.
Crystal Palace have also been mentioned as a possible option for Sterling as Oliver Glasner looks to strengthen his wide options before Friday’s transfer deadline.
Juventus are another club that has been linked with the Chelsea attacker, but they are also interested in signing Sancho from Man United.