Raheem Sterling’s surprising transfer plan gives Mikel Arteta the key factor for an Arsenal deal – Bailey Keogh

Arsenal should look to make a sensational Premier League transfer next season if Mikel Arteta’s side qualify for the Champions League. Raheem Sterling surprising desires should have put the Gunners on red alert.

According to the Daily Mirror, Sterling is now considering staying at Manchester City for one more season and leaving when his contract runs out. He knows he will have the pick of the clubs next summer as a free agent.

The Gunners missed out on Champions League football ahead of next season. But, if Arteta can guide Arsenal to a top-four finish in the next campaign then it could allow the north London side to enter the race for Sterling’s signature.

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The Athletic’s David Ornstein reported a few weeks ago Sterling has expressed no desire to join Arteta in north London despite previously working together at Manchester City. However, this stance could change in a year’s time if Arsenal finish in the top-four (or win the Europa League) next season.

The Gunners narrowly missed out on a Champions League spot ahead of next season after defeats to Tottenham and Newcastle saw the north London side fall short by just two points.

Arsenal had already been plotting a free transfer for a superstar in 2023 as German news outlet Bild reported that the Gunners were interested in bringing Serge Gnabry back to the club this summer. However, their failure to qualify for the Champions League apparently removes any hope of making it happen. But he is a free agent in 2023, and Arsenal could look to explore that option if it remains open for another year.

Sterling would certainly be an excellent alternative. The four-time Premier League champion has shown why he is one of the most dangerous attackers in Europe over recent seasons.

The Gunners had previously registered interest in Sterling as transfer expert Fabrizio Romano in October of last year said: “For Sterling, it is about the contract. Man City have been clear with him – extend the contract, or we will try to sell you in January or next summer,” he told The Arsenal Lounge.

“It’s true, Arsenal would love to have him. Mikel Arteta is in love, he is convinced he would be perfect. Man City want more than £50million.”

The 26-year-old has scored more than 100 goals during his six-year career at Man City, whilst playing an important role in their most recent Premier League title success. He would prove to be an excellent signing for the Gunners. If he does decide to run down his contract, Champions League football could be crucial in persuading the Englishman to join the Gunners.