During the recent time that Liverpool Football Club has fallen upon, Raheem Sterling has found himself on the end of a large of criticism as many question the loyalty displayed by the young want-away star.
Its true that Liverpool haven’t had the best of seasons, however it is hard to ignore the success of the previous campaign which saw the club reach the highest position for a number of year, as well the rise of Sterling himself, establishing himself as a first team player thanks to the guidance of Brendan Rodgers. Sterling has had an average season this year, managing 9 goals in the league and becoming the top goalscorer for that campaign. However this is not exactly an outstanding tally, and does not put him in the sort of position that he can command and manipulate a club such as Liverpool. This difference in views from Sterling’s and Liverpool’s representatives could lead to the youngster departing the reds this summer, with a whole host of clubs eager for his signature, and are not put off by his large price tag.
Clubs such as Manchester City, Arsenal, Real Madrid, and even sensationally Manchester United have been linked with a move for the 20 year old, whose still has 2 years remaining on his contract at Anfield. I cannot see a move to United being realistic, and with the quality of squad at their disposal, I can’t see a switch to the Bernabau being likely either,(that is unless Rafa Benitez changes the squad heavily). That leaves Arsenal and Manchester City as the two most likely to capture his signature, with both looking to bolster their squads to try and push for a title challenge next season. However I cannot see either of these potential moves materialising either. Arsenal already have a whole host of fast wingers at their disposal, with the likes of Walcott, Chamberlain, and Sanchez all filling up the possible plces, and with the likes of Serge Gnabry and Ryo Miyaichi rising through the youth ranks, I cannot see Wenger making a move for the London born youngster. As for Manchester City, they certainly have enough money to meet Sterlings contract demands, however they are already under pressure from financial fair play, and so may choose not to spend big at the risk of nother heavy fine. As well as this they have a reputation for ruining the development of young English starts, with the likes of Rodwell, Sinclair, and Lescott all dropping in quality after moves to the club.
For these reasons I can see Sterling staying at Liverpool for at least another season, but only time will tell if he decides to choose money over development this summer, something which regular first team football at Liverpool can provide him.
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