Wright-Phillips transfer drags on

The transfer of Manchester City winger Shaun Wright-Phillips to Stamford Bridge is reported to be no closer despite private confidence at Chelsea that the England international’s arrival is imminent.

City of Manchester Stadium officials have indicated that the two clubs are still no nearer to concluding a deal that would be contingent on Chelsea meeting an asking price of around £25m, and that they are not prepared to be kept waiting for much longer.

City have already drawn up two plans for their summer transfer activities, dependent on whether Wright-Phillips stays or leaves. Club officials have rejected the notion that Chelsea are giving them time to put together a package of new signings to appease supporters in the event of Wright-Phillips being sold.

Despite debts of around £62m, City are not in a position where they have to sell their best player. The core £44m deficit is said to be structured in a manageable system of repayments. That said, they will find it hard to refuse a £10m transfer kitty for manager Stuart Pearce and £10-15m to pay off a large chunk of their substantial arrears.

I’m sure it’s just a matter of time.

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