Raheem Sterling's £49m move to Manchester City is great deal for Liverpool says Jamie Carragher

Jamie Carragher has claimed that Raheem Sterling's big money move to Manchester City is a great deal for Liverpool.

The 20-year-old had made his desire to leave Anfield in the summer transfer window after his agent Aidy Ward told Evening Standard the winger will not sign a contract extension.

According to BBC, the Reds and City have agreed a £49m ($76m) fee, which will see Sterling move to Etihad. The former Liverpool defender believes the England international is not yet a great player and went on to hail the Anfield club for the heavy fee they are going to receive from the potential sale of the player.

"Raheem is a very good young player but he has not yet hit the heights of an Owen, Rooney, Fowler or Giggs at this stage of his career," Carragher told Sky Sports.

"So there's no doubt £49m is a great deal for Liverpool. It's a great fee and credit to the owners who have shown great strength."

"It sends a message to other clubs and current players. Surely in the future they will want to halt the exodus of Liverpool's top players moving on."

"The price is not something Raheem can control and the debate will rage about whether he's worth it or not but the price is more to do with nationality and potential."

"But if he can take City to more titles and get close to Champions League success they'll deem it worth it," the Liverpool legend explained.

Sterling's move to City was confirmed by Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers, as quoted by The Guardian. Earlier reports suggested the player had a fall out with the Northern Irishman, which was rubbished by the former Swansea boss.

Liverpool have signed Brazil international Roberto Firmino from Hoffenheim earlier this summer. He completed his move to Anfield earlier in July and can play in the wide position or up front.

In addition to this, Rodgers has the services of Jordan Ibe, who made his first Premier League start during the goalless draw against Everton in February. The 19-year-old can replace Sterling in the starting lineup for the next season.