Man Utd 'open talks' with Chelsea over Raheem Sterling deal

Manchester United are reported to have opened talks with Chelsea over a deal to sign winger Raheem Sterling.

Sterling has been frozen out and encouraged to leave by Chelsea, who even handed his shirt number to new signing Pedro Netro, and the 29-year-old is now keen to find a permanent move away from Stamford Bridge before Friday's transfer deadline.

Speculation of a swap deal involving United's Jadon Sancho has been rife on social media and it recently emerged that Sterling would be interested in a move to Old Trafford.

According to The Telegraph, United sporting director Dan Ashworth has reached out to Chelsea to discuss a move for Sterling which would also take Sancho to Stamford Bridge in exchange.

It is claimed that United will only pursue a deal if Sancho is involved, with the Red Devils eyeing a straight swap instead of paying a fee for Sterling.

Complicating things for both clubs is Sterling's current contract, which is worth over £300,000 per week. He is currently in talks with Chelsea over the three years remaining on his deal, with the Blues expected to pay part of his salary at any club Sterling joins before the deadline.

Chelsea are long-term admirers of Sancho, who has been identified as a possible reinforcement for Enzo Maresca's new-look forward line. He has previously admitted to growing up as a Chelsea fan and idolising both Frank Lampard and Didier Drogba.

The Athletic add Sancho is likely to depart United this week and, alongside Chelsea, talks are also ongoing with Juventus over the 24-year-old's future.

Chelsea would like to include a player in their pursuit of Sancho and Sterling is seen as the most feasible candidate as it stands, despite the complication of his high wages.

Both players have yet to even make the bench for their respective clubs in the Premier League this season as United and Chelsea seek to find new homes for their wingers.

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