CITY SET ASKING PRICE FOR STERLING

Raheem Sterling has been an important player for Premier League holders Manchester City over the past seasons. However, his status in the team has changed since the middle of last season. His spot in the starting XI is no longer a certainty at Manchester City. Barcelona target Sterling has seen his status change from a certain starter to an uncertain starter since the middle of the last campaign. His situation as a possible starter has been affected further by the arrival of England national team colleague Jack Grealish from fellow Premier League side Aston Villa.

Also, Sterling and his representatives have been in contract talks with Manchester City as confirmed by English publication Metro, but an agreement over a new deal has not been reached.

The ongoing contract impasse has prompted Manchester City officials to set an asking price for Sterling in the event of a sale. The player would be sold if an agreement over a new deal is not reached and La Liga giants Barcelona have been strongly linked with a move for him.

Barcelona target Sterling has 18 months left on his contract and he could be on the move in the January transfer window if Manchester City receive a good offer for him. It has been reported that Manchester City would be open to a £50m deal for Sterling. German champions Bayern Munich paid a similar amount for Leroy Sane when they signed him from Manchester City at the start of last season.

Sterling has struggled to score goals for Premier League heavyweights Manchester City this season. He has two goals and one assist in 15 games in all competitions. The Barcelona target has scored once in nine matches on the Premier League scene. His lone goal in the league this season came during the 5-0 home win over bottom team Norwich City.