“I’m convinced they can get any of our players”: Pep comments on Sterling to Barcelona links

Rumours of Barcelona’s interest in Raheem Sterling have been doing the rounds since the summer transfer window. The Catalans have been heavily linked with a move for the Manchester City attacker, who has fallen down the pecking order at the Etihad Stadium.

The 26-year-old, who once was an undisputed starter for the Premier League champions, now finds himself behind the likes of Jack Grealish, Phil Foden, Bernardo Silva, Ferran Torres, Gabriel Jesus and Riyad Mahrez in the order of preference.

Given his situation, Sterling is seeking an exit from Manchester City and Barcelona are willing to provide him with a way out. The Catalan giants have struggled in the final third this season with a lack of quality beyond Ansu Fati and Memphis Depay. The latter has also somewhat faded after a bright start while the former continues to battle fitness issues.

With Ousmane Dembele also struggling with injuries, another quality wide player would be a welcome addition for the Blaugrana. Sterling would, thus, be an ideal signing for Barca.

On Monday, Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola was quizzed by journalists about Sterling’s situation and the interest from Barcelona in the England international. The ex-Barca boss left the door open for a potential transfer saying that the Catalans would be an attractive proposition for any player.

As quoted by Mundo Deportivo, he said: “Honestly I have no idea. I don’t know anything… Not that I would tell you anyways. If Barcelona are interested in any of our players, I am convinced that they can get them. Barça continues to be an attractive club, more than attractive.”

“Barça can use their media to influence signings. That’s the thing about Barcelona; they can do what they want, good or bad.”

Even if Barcelona press ahead with their interest in Sterling, given their financial predicament, only a loan move would be possible in January, with an option of making the deal permanent in the summer. With Guardiola leaving the door open for a transfer, it will be interesting to see if a move materialises in the coming weeks.