Report: Raheem Sterling open to Manchester United move

It's been 77 years since a footballer move from Liverpool to Manchester United, but Raheem Sterling is reportedly willing to break that time frame.

According to Jamie Jackson of the Guardian, Sterling is considering a move to Old Trafford as he's keen to work under manager Louis van Gaal, who is an admirer of the youngster's style of play and versatility. Furthermore, the 20-year-old virtuoso is reportedly aware of United's interest in him and is keen to depart Anfield this summer.

However, falling in line with Brendan Rodgers' insistence that Sterling will be back at Liverpool next season, Sky Sports reports that the Merseyside club will not sell their No. 31 to United or any other club, although a large bid could test their resolve.

Allenby Chilton was the player to move from Liverpool to United, making the switch in 1938. Meanwhile, the last footballer to move from Old Trafford from Anfield was Phil Chisnall, who did so in 1964. In other words, transfers between the two clubs rarely occur.

Two years remain on Sterling's £35,000-per-week deal, and talks over a new contract were cancelled at the end of May, when his agent, Aidy Ward, denied that his client would sign a new deal, insisting that even a £900,000-a-week contract wouldn't be enough.

Sterling admitted in an interview with the BBC that he had turned down a new five-year deal from Liverpool that would have seen him earn £100,000 per week, meaning that if the club continue to play hardball, he stands to lose up to £12 million in earnings over the next two seasons.

Jackson also notes that an offer from United could spark a bidding war for Sterling's services involving Manchester City and Real Madrid, two clubs that are apparently keeping an eye on the player.