Manchester City fans have been reacting to a post on Twitter which relays a report that claims Raheem Sterling is weighing up whether to run down his contract so he can have his pick of clubs next summer.
Despite contributing 16 goals and seven assists in Premier League and Champions League fixtures this season, the 27-year-old has not always found himself first choice under Pep Guardiola.
The England winger is set to enter the final year of his contract and, having lost his regular starting position, has been linked with a move this summer with Barcelona, Arsenal and Tottenham, Real Madrid touted as potential destinations.
The attacker’s current contract at the Etihad expires in 2023, meaning he could begin negotiations about a potential free move away from City in just nine months’ time. He is either expected to renew his deal or to leave in the summer transfer window.
According to The Mirror, Sterling is now mulling over whether to run down his contract and become a free agent. A new deal has not been ruled out but he wants assurances from Guardiola as well as an increase on his mega wages of around £300,000 a week.
It has been claimed that City would rather sell Sterling this year rather than lose him for nothing in 12 months’ time, but it is the player who looks set to have the final say on his next career move.
The report was shared on Twitter by City Xtra and it attracted plenty of attention from the club’s supporters.
“Nah man… we can’t allow that to happen. Need to force him to make a decision this summer… either he extends or leaves, not leaving on a free .”
Credit: @King_Kevin100
“I’m not sterling out but I’d rather him just leave now if that’s actually true.”
Credit: @shane_mcfc
“Why he’s acting like this? Either extend or leave bro he’s not bigger than the club.”
Credit: @austinmcfc
“Sell him then.”
Credit: @e11isBK
“If he’s willing to do this, I’d rather cash in on him this summer 🤷.”
Credit: @LouisWrittle_
“Out of respect for the club, it’s two options: extend or get sold..”
Credit: @TrueInBlue
“I think for both parties that shelving contract talks for now is for the best. It would allow us to have a look at whether we think he’s got more to offer us at the top level, and would let him feel out whether he thinks he has a long-term future here as a starter.”
Credit: @HWestwoodP
“Hope he stays extends three more years so he will have 10 years at the club..”
Credit: @CrustyFlacko
“Force him out the club this summer if he doesn’t decide to sign a new contract before the transfer window closes, don’t wanna see another player go for absolutely nothing after not impressing for another season.”
Credit: @EternalAlvarez
“This is not the way to win the fans back.”
Credit: @MCFCnish
