West Ham United’s decision to avoid signing Raheem Sterling from Chelsea was a prudent one. While Sterling is a talented player, his high wages, injury concerns, and potential lack of fitness would have made him a risky proposition.
Sterling’s substantial salary, a breath-taking £325,000 per week! would have been a significant financial burden for us. The club’s focus on responsible spending and building a sustainable team would have made it difficult to justify the high cost of signing Sterling.
Sterling’s injury history was also a cause for concern. The winger has missed a significant number of games in recent seasons, raising questions about his reliability and availability.
Also of all the areas in West Ham’s squad that could have done with new arrivals on deadline day, wingers were certainly not one of them.
His playing style may also have not have been the best fit for the Irons. The club’s focus on a more physical and direct style of play would have not have aligned with Sterling’s strengths.
Then there is the situation where summer signing Crysencio Summerville is looking like he’ll have to be a substitute this season and £22m Luis Guilherme might have to wait a considerable time for his debut. The signing of Sterling would only have made those situations worse so I’m glad we didn’t sign him.
The club’s decision to pursue other targets was a more prudent and strategic approach.