- EXCLUSIVE from Graeme Bailey
The opening weekend of the Premier League did not throw up too many surprise results but there were a few squad decisions that caught the eye.
That is certainly the case for Raheem Sterling at Chelsea. The 29-year-old published a statement after being left out of Enzo Maresca’s side for the clash against Manchester City.
HITC revealed that Sterling is considering his options this summer with an offer on the table from the Saudi Pro League.
Another surprise omission was Joe Gomez at Liverpool, with Arne Slot leaving the 27-year-old out of his matchday squad entirely for their trip to Ipswich Town.
HITC understands that Joe Gomez’s representatives are working on options that could see him move this month.
Liverpool’s hierarchy have insisted that Gomez remains part of their plans, but the England defender has been concerned by his role under new boss Slot.
Gomez’s fears were confirmed when he was left out of the Ipswich clash, and it has immediately caught the attention of interested clubs.
Aston Villa and Newcastle target Liverpool defender
HITC can reveal that talks are already taking place with clubs who have an interest in Gomez.
The Liverpool centre-back has been linked with a move away this summer and Gomez was considering his options after being offered to Newcastle United as part of a possible deal for Anthony Gordon.
We reported back in June that Liverpool had held talks to sign Gordon and the Tyneside club had discussed including Gomez to address their need for a centre-back.
Newcastle will reconsider a move for Gomez if they decide to walk away from first-choice target Marc Guehi.
Newcastle have submitted four bids for Guehi, including a club-record offer worth around £65million. Crystal Palace have rejected all bids so far.
Aston Villa have already spoken with Gomez and he is an option for them to replace Diego Carlos, who is set to leave the club.
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However, Villa have a number of defensive targets on their radar having already held talks with Feyenoord’s Lutsharel Geertruida. They are also keeping tabs on Chelsea’s Trevoh Chalobah.
Brentford and West Ham have also enquired about Gomez this month as they weigh up a late move for a centre-back.
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