When the definite answer comes from Sterlings camp, everything will be quite clear. Seems like a catch 22, his wages aren’t that of what u should pay for a bench player and he definitely won’t be a guaranteed starter. And if he does not commit, pep is not gonna play him at all since why would u play a player u know is leaving instead of giving opportunities to players u know is gonna stay and fight. If he even signs a contract - his role in the squad would be pretty much the same as it is now. IMO i would not mind him go - extend Mahrez and let Mahrez be phased out for Palmer in a few years, since they have a few resemblances + would be a perfect understudy.