Sterling managing talks over future | Chelsea waiting on Lukaku exit

Raheem Sterling is managing talks over his future, but no decision has been made yet, with Chelsea expected to act on their interest once Romelu Lukaku's loan to Inter Milan has been completed.

The England international enters the final year of his contract at the Etihad, and at 27, is carefully considering what he believes is the defining stage of his career.

Chelsea have yet to open any formal dialogue with Sterling, who is one of their primary targets.

Sterling feels he hasn't reached his ceiling and can still elevate his game, which can only be achieved if he is viewed as a decisive contributor in the starting XI - especially in the context of the biggest matches.

That status has receded at City, but deep mutual respect remains between the player and the club. He has respectfully asked for time to fully assess what kind of role he holds in Pep Guardiola's plans moving forward.

Sterling is desperate to make a significant contribution wherever he plays and has been honest that he does not want a bit-part function and thrives on being given responsibility on and off the pitch.

Talks with City have been very professional, and cordial and it is understood that the club will not stand in his way if he chooses to move on and they receive an appropriate fee.

Thomas Tuchel is an admirer of Sterling, who represents an upgrade on many of his current options in the final third and possesses tactical dexterity.

Sterling could cure Chelsea's scoring issues, having posted double figures in the Premier League in each of his last five seasons. He has proven to be a creative force too, first at Liverpool and then City, directly contributing a combined 165 goals in the division in 320 appearances for both.

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