“He was unbelievable” – Mikel Arteta rules out move for Chelsea castaway as Arsenal finalise Mikel Merino deal

Gunners boss Mikel Arteta has firmly stated that he has not entertained the idea of bringing Raheem Sterling to Arsenal, despite the player’s uncertain future at Chelsea, Soccernet.football reports.

Sterling, once a star under the tutelage of Arteta and Pep Guardiola at Manchester City, now finds himself on the periphery at Stamford Bridge.

After joining Chelsea for £50 million in 2022, the 29-year-old winger has been excluded from Enzo Maresca’s first-team plans.

Sterling’s situation at Chelsea has taken a sharp turn, with the club reportedly informing him that he can leave before the transfer window closes on August 30.

The former Liverpool winger has also been stripped of his squad number and is now training separately from the team. This has led to speculation about potential destinations, with Arsenal being one of the names mentioned.

However, when asked about the possibility of contacting Sterling, Arteta was clear:

“No, but I can talk about my time with Raheem. It was exceptional, we built a really strong relationship together. He was unbelievable at the time we were together and he taught me a lot as well. About individuals, how they play, and how we give them support and help them. He’s someone I have a really strong feeling about.”

Sterling’s hefty £300,000 per week salary and the remaining three years on his contract are significant obstacles for any club considering a move.

Although Aston Villa and Crystal Palace have shown interest, a move to Arsenal appears unlikely. Meanwhile, Arteta is focused on finalising the signing of Mikel Merino from Real Sociedad, with the Spanish midfielder expected to undergo a medical in London soon.