Arsenal transfer news: Could Chelsea's Raheem Sterling cut short loan stint in January?

Chelsea allowed the England international to make the temporary switch to the Gunners in the summer after Enzo Maresca made the decision to leave him out of his plans.

Although Sterling was initially left frustrated by the Italian's stance, reuniting with Mikel Arteta - who he knew from his time at Manchester City - was regarded as a transfer that suited all parties.

However, the 30-year-old has failed to make an impact in his three-and-a-half months in North London, casting doubt as to whether he will stay beyond the end of 2024.

According to The Standard, Sterling has already taken a stance as to whether he wants to remain at Arsenal for the rest of the season.

Sterling committed to Arsenal

The report claims that Sterling remains motivated to earn a place in Arteta's starting lineup over the coming weeks and months.

That is despite just four starts and six substitute outings being made in all competitions, with only 146 minutes coming in the Premier League.

Sterling was left further frustrated on Saturday afternoon as Arteta failed to call on him during the goalless draw with Everton.

Arteta has acknowledged that Sterling is "absolutely desperate" to play more regularly and improve on his 356 minutes for the season thus far.

Is more game time realistic?

With Arsenal still involved in four competitions, it is plausible that Sterling could receive more opportunities across the winter months.

A start versus Brentford in the EFL Cup quarter-finals is a possibility having started the club's previous two ties in the competition.

Nevertheless, Bukayo Saka, Gabriel Martinelli, Leandro Trossard and Gabriel Jesus are all ahead of Sterling when it comes to the wide areas.

Courtesy of Sterling playing no competitive minutes for Chelsea prior to his loan move, there remains the possibility of a mid-season switch elsewhere should Arsenal and Sterling have a change of heart.

Written by

Darren Plant