According to The Telegraph (h/t The Express), Real Madrid are keeping a close watch on Manchester City forward Raheem Sterling ahead of a possible summer move.
Sterling’s contract with City runs until 2023 and the report suggests that if there is no new agreement between the two parties, Real could test City’s resolve with a bid for the winger in the summer.
Sterling, 25, came through the youth ranks of QPR and Liverpool and joined Manchester City in 2015. Since then, he has made 226 appearances for the club. In the process, he has scored 89 times and provided 71 assists.
He is a key member under Pep Guardiola and especially in the absence of Leroy Sane this term, the English international had featured regularly. Currently, Sterling is out of action after picking up an injury in the 2-0 loss against Tottenham.
Meanwhile, Guardiola’s men haven’t been the dominant force they were in the previous two title-winning campaigns. Their defence has let them down throughout the season and the manager hasn’t brought in reinforcements.
On the other hand, their attacking unit has been strong. They have some of the best forwards in their ranks in Sergio Aguero, Bernardo Silva, Riyad Mahrez and Sterling. While the Argentine has scored 16 league goals in this campaign, Sterling is behind him with 11 goals.
The former Liverpool man has scored 20 goals and provided 6 assists across all competitions and has played a vital role in helping the Etihad outfit to the 2nd position in the league. Therefore, Sterling is important to the club and they should not allow him to leave at any cost.
The Englishman has immense experience under his belt. Predominantly a left-winger, he is capable of playing anywhere along the frontline and his versatility would be handy for the club.
The 25-year-old seems to have faded in the last few games but his numbers speak for themselves. He has done well in the last few years and still has the energy to continue at the highest level.
The Kingston-born English international is a vital member of the squad and the manager has to ensure that he stays put beyond the summer.
