Barcelona are looking to sign Raheem Sterling on an initial loan deal as soon as January, according to Spanish publication SPORT. They also note that the transfer for Sterling could depend on the future of Ousmane Dembele and whether or not he continues at the club.
The France international is one of the most expensive signings in Barcelona history and has not quite lived up to the hype, mainly because of injuries. His track record with fitness has hindered his ability to contribute to the team on the pitch.
Dembele is nearing the end of his contract as well, but is only 24 years old. Hence, Barcelona are well in time to make a decision about the Frenchman and whether or not they want to keep him for the future.
Sterling himself has been on the bench since the beginning of the season, with Pep Guardiola preferring to start Jack Grealish, Phil Foden and Gabriel Jesus ahead of the England international. Due to the lack of game time, it is being rumoured that Sterling could push for a transfer as well. The player was one of the first names on the team sheet under Guardiola before, but his status has become uncertain now.
Barcelona will have around €16 million to work with during the January transfer window, and could sign either Sterling or Dani Olmo. Conversations with both players took place during the summer, and a proper move could take place during the January transfer window as a loan with the option to buy.
