Manchester City could be left frustrated in their attempts to sign Raheem Sterling, as Liverpool are set to play hardball over the want-away winger’s future.
Liverpool’s stance on Sterling’s future, the fact that he’s not for sale, remains the same despite Liverpool’s agreement with City over the transfer of James Milner.
The Manchester Evening News claim that Manchester City are certainly interested in Sterling, as they need an English player to fit the Premier League’s home-grown rule. However, they refuse to pay over what they value the 20 year-old.
Sterling’s contract runs out in 2017, too, which will undoubtedly decrease the youngster’s market value.
Liverpool are insistent that they won’t be held to ransom over the situation, though.
In the past, John Henry, the owner, has proven his stubbornness and determination to keep players he believes are key to the club, at the club, with the Luis Suárez saga not so long ago.
This is a similar situation and despite Sterling and his agent’s plea to leave Anfield, the club know where they stand on the matter.
There could be an auction in the works, with Manchester United, City’s rivals, reportedly ready to make a £25m bid. Arsenal have been reported to be interested in Sterling’s services, too.
