Arsenal could cut short loan deal as Raheem Sterling transfer decision made

Arsenal have no intention of breaking down Raheem Sterling's loan deal but are assessing their options as Premier League rules restrict their recruitment.

The Chelsea man completed a deadline day move from London to the Emirates when it became clear he was not part of Enzo Maresca's plans. Mikel Arteta had worked with Sterling during their time at Manchester City and opted to expand his attacking resources.

However, Sterling has been a peripheral figure and his minutes remain limited. He has not been able to enjoy regular outings and there is talk of both parties ending the agreement early. Arsenal have no plans to do that, but they can no longer secure domestic loan deals.

Premier League rules stipulate that they can only borrow two players from domestic rivals and Sterling was joined by Bournemouth goalkeeper Neto, who will also spend this year in the Emirates. The latter's loan agreement is likely to be revised if a new opportunity arises.

Arsenal are keeping all options open and may want to bring in new faces, especially in attack. Neto would be the man sacrificed if a loan deal came up that they couldn't turn down.

Arteta has chosen to take the blame for Sterling's situation. The Chelsea outcast has scored just once in 11 games, that goal coming in the Carabao Cup, with his chances largely coming off the bench rather than as a starter.

The Arsenal boss said: “I would like to see more of him to be honest and this is up to me. He is doing his best. His effort and commitment to the team have been exceptional and now it is time for me to give him more minutes .” That's the intention. That's why I used him against Forest, that's why I wanted to use him against Sporting, now get into that rhythm because he can really have an impact on the team.”

Sterling suffered a shock in the summer when it emerged that the new Chelsea manager had no plans to use him. He was left out of the matchday squad for the season opener, despite having been used throughout the pre-season. A solution for his future was quickly sought.

At the Emirates he remained behind Bukayo Saka, Gabriel Martinelli, Leandro Trossard and Gabriel Jesus in the pecking order. He can play both centrally and externally, but has failed to become a regular at Arsenal this month as they look for more firepower.