Raheem Sterling Rejects Massive £650,000-Per-Week Saudi Deal to Join Arsenal on Loan
Raheem Sterling has stunned the football world by rejecting a lucrative £650,000-per-week deal from an unnamed Saudi club to join Arsenal on loan from Chelsea. The 29-year-old has been a peripheral figure under new Blues boss Enzo Maresca, and it’s believed his desire to get back into the England set-up ahead of the 2026 World Cup was a major factor in his decision.
Sterling’s move to the Gunners comes as a massive boost to Mikel Arteta’s side, who are looking to bolster their attacking options. The England international has won four Premier League titles during his time at Manchester City and Liverpool, but it seems he’s eager to add more silverware to his cabinet.
According to reports, Sterling was offered the massive weekly salary by the Saudi club, which would have made him one of the highest-paid footballers in the world. However, the forward reportedly turned down the deal in favor of joining Arsenal, who he believes are a better fit for his ambitions.
"I’m super happy that we got it over the line," Sterling said in a statement. "It’s a perfect fit for me, and I’m excited to be a part of this team."
The Three Lions international has been impressed by the Gunners’ team spirit and believes he can contribute to the team’s success. "I spoke with Edu and I said that it’s something you can see from the outside, you can see the real togetherness from Mikel’s time here and you see the journey that the boys are on, and you can see the hunger, and I keep saying again, the togetherness is something I’m looking to be a part of," he added.
Arsenal’s sporting director, Edu Gaspar, was instrumental in bringing Sterling to the Emirates Stadium, and it’s clear that the club’s vision resonated with the player. "It’s an unbelievable feeling," Sterling gushed. "It’s really exciting. I’m buzzing."
The move comes as a massive coup for Arsenal, who have beaten several other top European clubs to sign Sterling. The Gunners will hope that the forward’s experience and talent will help them challenge for a top-four finish this season.
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