Crystal Palace’s reported agreement with Tottenham Hotspur for Brennan Johnson could effectively rule out a move for Chelsea winger Raheem Sterling.
Former Everton, Aston Villa and Aberdeen chief executive Keith Wyness believes Palace’s interest in Johnson makes a Sterling deal unlikely, while also pointing to the significant pay cut the Chelsea forward would need to accept to make a switch feasible. Wyness was speaking exclusively to Football Insider.
Chelsea are keen to move Sterling on after he was frozen out of first team plans this season following Enzo Maresca’s decision not to include the 31 year old. Palace had been mentioned as a possible destination, but their £35 million agreement with Spurs for Johnson appears to change the landscape.
Sterling would need major salary reduction
Wyness, who now runs a consultancy advising top level clubs, doubts Sterling would see Palace as an appealing option if Johnson arrives at Selhurst Park. Speaking on Football Insider’s Inside Track podcast, he suggested Fulham could yet re enter the picture.
He explained that Palace and Fulham are the only realistic London options, but stressed that any move would hinge on Sterling accepting a dramatic drop in wages. Chelsea are understood to be more focused on clearing his salary than recouping a transfer fee.
According to Wyness, Sterling would likely have to reduce his weekly earnings from around £300,000 to closer to £50,000, potentially supplemented by performance related bonuses, to secure regular football. He also acknowledged the possibility that Sterling may instead choose to see out his contract at Stamford Bridge.
Crystal Palace facing attacking concerns
Palace remain active in the market for attacking reinforcements as uncertainty surrounds the future of Jean Philippe Mateta. Oliver Glasner has also been hit by an injury setback, with Eddie Nketiah facing a lengthy spell on the sidelines due to a hamstring problem.
With Ismaila Sarr away at the Africa Cup of Nations, Palace are short of options in forward areas, increasing the urgency for additions during the window.