Rodgers denies Sterling rift but confirms departure for City

Brendan Rodgers has confirmed Raheem Sterling will join Manchester City from Liverpool subject to a medical, insisting he has no personal issue with the 20-year-old player.

Rodgers, speaking at a news conference in Thailand where Liverpool are kicking off their pre-season tour of Asia and Australia, did not provide specific details of the reported £69m transfer but confirmed an agreement had been reached.

“The situation is very simple. The club has agreed with another for a deal for Raheem to be transferred and subject to medical that will go through,” Rodgers said. “Contrary to the last week or so, in terms of what was written, Raheem and I have always remained very strong in our relationship, and have been up until he left. There’s no issue there.”

Manchester City had two bids for Sterling rejected last month after he turned down the offer of a pay increase to stay at Anfield. Sterling did not fly out with Liverpool for their pre-season tour despite being named in the squad.

Rodgers was coy about the details, saying he was focusing on the players on the tour.

“I spoke to Raheem at length yesterday, there is no issue. Two clubs have agreed a deal and subject to a medical he will move on,” Rodgers said. “It’s important for us to improve and build the squad for this season coming. We are pleased with the players we have brought in. It’s the overall team that is important. We aim to be stronger than last season that will be reliant on everyone.”

(Guardian service)