Napoli sporting director Giovanni Manna has effectively closed the door on a potential move for Raheem Sterling, citing the wingerโs significant financial demands as a major obstacle.
The England international is currently a free agent after having his contract at Chelsea terminated, but a move to the Stadio Diego Armando Maradona appears increasingly unlikely. Speaking to Sky Sport ahead of Napoliโs Champions League clash against the Blues, Manna addressed the speculation surrounding the 31-year-old.
โRaheem is very strong but he hasnโt played for a long time,โ Manna stated โ relayed by Di Marzio โWe spoke with him during the summer, but I see it as difficult for now; he has important economic expectations.โ
The sporting directorโs comments suggest that while Napoli hold the player in high regard, the lack of recent match fitness combined with his salary requirements makes the operation unfeasible for the Partenopei in the current climate.
Despite Sterling being available without a transfer fee following his Stamford Bridge exit, the financial package required to land the four-time Premier League winner remains beyond Napoliโs intended parameters.
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Kaustubh Pandey I GIFN
