Arsenal are stepping up their efforts to sign Raheem Sterling from Chelsea on loan, sources have told ESPN.
The move is thought to be linked to late interest in Reiss Nelson from four different Premier League clubs with the Gunners of the view that Sterling would be an upgrade on Nelson if an agreement can be found in both cases.
However, while sources have told ESPN that Sterling is keen on moving to Arsenal, a big factor in finding an agreement will be identifying who will cover the England international’s £325,000 weekly wage.
Sterling has three years remaining on his current contract at Stamford Bridge but has been deemed surplus to requirements at Stamford Bridge.
They have been in talks with Manchester United over a possible swap deal involving Jadon Sancho but that proposal remains complicated given the salary levels involved.
Juventus also remain interested in Sancho, while Sterling’s camp have sounded out other options including Arsenal and Aston Villa.
Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta distanced the club from a move from Sterling last week despite speaking positively about his character after the pair worked together for three years at Manchester City.
However, Arsenal have been open to signing an attacking player throughout the window and are discussing their options, having also been linked with a late move for Bayern Munich winger Kingsley Coman.
Meanwhile, Arsenal announced the signing of Bournemouth goalkeeper Neto on a season-long loan deal.
The 35-year-old has been identified by Arsenal as a back-up for first-choice goalkeeper David Raya and his arrival will enable Aaron Ramsdale to complete his move to Southampton.
As ESPN reported on Thursday, Ramsdale has agreed a deal worth up to £25 million ($33m) including add-ons. Sources have told ESPN that Arsenal are open to signing another goalkeeper on Friday if the right opportunity arises having allowed Karl Hein to go out on loan to Real Valladolid.
They have shown an interest in Espanyol’s Joan García and have also been linked with Wigan’s Sam Tickle. Sources added that Espanyol want a fee in excess of €20m ($22m) for Garcia.
