Chelsea have told Liverpool that they will not pay their valuation of £50million for Manchester City target Raheem Sterling.
The winger is wanted by many Champions League clubs across Europe after the England international confirmed that he wanted to leave Anfield.
Manchester City manager Manuel Pellegrini is desperate to sign the 20-year-old with The Citizens already having two bids turned down by the Reds, with the second offer supposing to be £35million plus £5million in add-ons.
The Premier League champions have declared interest in the Jamaican-born star but have notified Liverpool’s hierarchy that they are out the deal if they want over £40million for him.
City are the bookies favourites to sign Sterling at the moment, but if the Etihad club refuse to go over £40million, then Jose Mourinho may ask the Chelsea board to match the offer.
The west London side are preparing an attractive offer for the 5’7 playmaker.
Liverpool boss Brendan Rodgers wants at least £50million for Sterling but with the negotiations taking longer than expected, the Reds could be tempted to take the money so they can use the amount on bringing Aston Villa striker Christian Benteke to the club.
By Drew Darbyshire (@DarbySports)