Manchester City’s reluctance to let players run down their contracts, whilst still in their prime years, could lead to them selling Raheem Sterling this summer, according to the Daily Telegraph‘s Mike McGrath.

The journalist, who is usually pretty reliable, claims that Arsenal are ready to “explore” a deal to sign the England international at the end of the season.

With the Gunners keen to strengthen their forward line and, with manager Mikel Arteta having worked with Sterling before, there appears to be some momentum behind claims that they will make a formal bid for the 27-year-old.

City have not managed to make any progress in their attempts to tie down Sterling to a new contract and, with the ex-Liverpool player’s current deal expiring in 2023, it seems a parting of the ways is looking increasingly likely.

There are other players, including Gabriel Jesus and Riyad Mahrez, who are also in similar positions, so it could be a summer of change at the Etihad.