MANCHESTER CITY are in talks to make Raheem Sterling their highest-paid player as reward for his incredible form.
Currently thought to be earning £300,000-a-week, the winger last agreed a new deal a year ago that will run to 2023.
That catapulted Sterling to second in City’s list of earners and this new extension being discussed will take him past Kevin De Bruyne to top the leaderboard.
The Belgian is paid £350,000-a-week after putting pen to paper on a six-year deal in January 2018.
And reports outline positive movement in initial negotiations between director of football Txiki Begiristain, chief operating officer Omar Berrada and Sterling’s agent Aidy Ward on Monday.
It is said Sterling will be put on a £450,000-a-week once talks are completed.
Sky Sports indicate the Premier League champions are relaxed over Sterling’s new contract even though Real Madrid were linked with a bid, albeit measly, for the England star.
City have splashed out over £1.5billion on signings in the past decade and an estimated 13 of their players earn north of £100k.
Sergio Aguero and David Silva complete the top-four earners with a weekly wage of £230,000 and £220,000 respectively.
Sterling has hit 14 goals and five assists so far this seasonCredit: Getty – Contributor
Veteran midfielder Fernandinho takes home £150,000-a-week – roughly the same as Bernardo Silva.
Ilkay Gundogan, Rodri, Aymeric Laporte, Riyad Mahrez, Nicolas Otamendi, Kyle Walker and John Stones are also on six-figure wages.
But Sterling is also reportedly one of very few City players also in full control of their own image rights, helping the 24-year-old secure deals with the likes of H&M, Pepsi and Gillette.
Man City boss Pep Guardiola has had heart-to-heart with Sterling after England brawl last week
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
