LONDON (AFP) – Raheem Sterling looks set to be the first major signing of the Todd Boehly era at Chelsea as according to media reports yesterday they have agreed a fee with Manchester City.
Sky said the England international forward will cost GBP47.5 million (USD57.1 million) while the BBC believe it is worth up to GBP50 million including add-ons.
New Chelsea chairman Boehly has thrust himself to the fore of transfer negotiations with the American also acting as interim sporting director in the post Roman Abramovich era.
Sterling’s signing will endorse Boehly’s high profile involvement as both Barcelona and Real Madrid were believed to be keen to buy him.
Sterling, 27, has already reportedly agreed personal terms and subject to a medical will sign a five year contract with the option of a further year. Chelsea hope the formalities will be completed in time for Sterling – who has been capped 77 times – to join them on their pre-season tour to the United States.
Sterling is into the final year of his contract at City and will fill the void left by the departure of record signing Romelu Lukaku’s return on loan to Inter Milan – just a year after splashing out GBP97 million on the Belgian striker.
