Raheem Sterling to Arsenal transfer claim as Chelsea lifeline emerges

Chelsea have until 11pm on Friday to complete any more deals before the summer transfer window closes.

It's been another busy summer at Stamford Bridge, with 12 new faces signed by the Blues. Enzo Maresca will now be hoping to mould a successful team together as Chelsea seek a top-four finish and a return to the Champions League.

Several big-name departures could also happen on Friday, with the futures of Raheem Sterling and Ben Chilwell yet to be resolved. Below are some of the latest media reports surrounding the Blues...

Sterling transfer claim

Sterling has reportedly been offered to Arsenal before Friday's transfer deadline. The 29-year-old is not part of Enzo Maresca's plans at Stamford Bridge after being left out of every Chelsea squad so far this season.

Maresca is looking to trim down a bloated squad with Ben Chilwell, another notable name left out of Maresca's project in West London. And The Independent claim that the Gunners are weighing up a move for Sterling, with the player said to be keen on a move but that any deal would require Chelsea to settle part of his contract and wages.

Football.london's Isaac Seelochan says: This doesn't feel like the kind of move Arsenal should be making under Mikel Arteta. However, it could work out perfectly for the Blues as they look to get a big earner off their wage bill.

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We saw at Manchester City how good Sterling can be under a proper structure around great players. But those days could very well be long gone and if a deal can be struck, Chelsea will be delighted.

United 'reject' Chilwell

Manchester United have reportedly rejected the opportunity to sign Chelsea left-back Ben Chilwell. The Independent reports that Chilwell has emerged as an option late in the window, but United do not believe a deal makes financial sense at this stage.

Football.london's Isaac Seelochan says: Chilwell is likely to be difficult to shift for Chelsea before Friday's deadline. The 27-year-old is too injury-prone for a club to risk a permanent transfer, while a loan may also be tricky with none of the top clubs looking for a left-back.

It's a nightmare scenario for the full-back who faces a lengthy spell on the sidelines, even though he is currently fully fit.