One of the most surprising transfer rumours that have cropped up in recent weeks has seen Raheem Sterling be linked with a move to Celtic. The past connection between the Englishman and Brendan Rodgers is believed to be at the centre of it, with the pair having enjoyed great success working together at Liverpool. That period was instrumental in turning him into one of the best wingers in the game.
Sterling finds himself in the middle of a tough period right now, though. He has been frozen out at Chelsea and is not even training with the first-team anymore.
Under these circumstances, it is hard to imagine that too many clubs would be interested in signing him in January. After all, he would not have played any football for the first half of the season and would need time to get up to speed. Then you consider his lack of form in recent years.
On the other hand, as reported by Football Insider, Celtic can only sign Sterling from Chelsea if they can cover his wages. Pete O'Rourke said:
"The problem with Raheem Sterling and any potential move away is his huge wages.
“I think he’s the highest paid player at Chelsea, still on £300,000-a-week so, look, Celtic aren’t going to get anywhere near those wages.
“They could only probably contribute to a small percentage of that as well and how long is it going to take for Raheem Sterling to be up to speed and be ready to play regular first team football if he’s totally frozen out of things right now?
“He’s not played any football since his spell at Arsenal last season and even then that didn’t go very well. So yeah, I would say a move is highly unlikely right now for Raheem Sterling to Celtic."
Celtic told they can sign Raheem Sterling only on one condition
There is no chance that Celtic would be willing or able to cover the entirety of Sterling's wages at Chelsea. So, if that is what any deal hinges on, it is not going to take place.
There have been suggestions that Celtic might be ready to cover about £50,000 per week, which is a fraction of what he receives at Chelsea. That being said, it is still better than nothing.
Also, a loan move to Celtic would provide Sterling the chance to play regular football, something that he has not done for a while. And, it would be a good step for Chelsea as well, because if the winger can rediscover his form, it would only boost their chances of finding him a new home next summer. So, considering all the benefits, perhaps a middle ground can be reached at some point a move can happen. But for now, do not count on that happening anytime soon. That is just the reality of it.