Raheem Sterling would not rule out a shock move to Manchester United despite having spent seven years with arch rivals Manchester City.

Chelsea attacker Sterling is set to leave this month having fallen out of favour under Enzo Maresca, who has not included the England star in any of his squads since the start of the season.

Chelsea are open to including Sterling in a move for Jadon Sancho, who is set to leave United ahead of Friday’s transfer deadline.

And Sterling would not automatically turn down a switch to Old Trafford if the opportunity arises.

The 29-year-old won four Premier League titles at the Etihad, one FA Cup and five EFL Cups during his stay with City.

Chelsea winger Raheem Sterling wouldn’t rule out joining Manchester United

Chelsea are open to including Sterling in a move for Jadon Sancho, who is set to leave United

But while he has maintains an affinity with his former club, playing for United – globally recognised as one of the biggest teams on the planet – is an option Sterling would give consideration too.

There is a pessimism about whether a deal that would see Sterling and Sancho swap clubs is possible.

Sterling’s reported £325,000-per-week wage will be problematic for all the clubs showing an interest ahead of Friday’s deadline.

Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca hasn’t included Sterling in any of his squads this season

Similarly, Sancho’s reported £300,000-per-week salary would not fit into Chelsea’s lowered wage structure.

Juventus also have a concrete interest in Sancho, with the Italian club believed to be more advanced in their move to sign the winger.

Juve, with Aston Villa and Crystal Palace, are also interested in Sterling.

Arsenal, over the weekend, were not actively pursuing Sterling but are fully aware of his situation. It remains to be seen if the Gunners change their stance ahead of Friday night’s cut-off.