27-year-old left seriously impressed by Todd Boehly in transfer meeting and will now sign for Chelsea – journalist
Ben Jacobs has claimed on Twitter that Todd Boehly was key in negotiations to convince Raheem Sterling to join Chelsea.
The England international has reportedly agreed personal terms with the Blues and looks set to become the club’s first marquee signing under their new ownership, with the deal potentially going through later today.
His openness to move away from the Etihad is because of the club’s wealth of attacking options – with Jack Grealish, Riyad Mahrez, Phil Foden and Gabriel Jesus all regularly competing with the 27-year-old for three positions under Pep Guardiola.
Thomas Tuchel had reportedly spoken to Sterling and convinced him to begin negotiations with the Blues, however Jacobs claims Boehly’s influence also has had a big effect on the deal.
Sterling impressed by Boehly
The American has taken a hands-on role in transfers for the club this summer, with key board members such as Marina Granovskaia departing as part of a new era at Stamford Bridge.
Blues fans will be happy that a deal appears to be about to be confirmed, after a quiet summer despite a whole heap of rumours.
Last week, the club agreed a fee with Leeds United for the transfer of Raphinha, with Boehly again being praised for his ability to reach a deal at such speed.
However, the player’s personal preference to play for Barcelona has thrown that deal in doubt, as he and his agent, Deco, wait to see if the Catalan side can secure a deal.
Despite this, the signing of Sterling is certainly one for fans to be excited by, with him holding individual talent West London hasn’t seen since Eden Hazard’s departure in 2019.