Chelsea are gearing up for a late-transfer-window exodus, with Raheem Sterling among nine players the club is aiming to offload before the summer transfer deadline.
Sterling, 30, experienced an underwhelming loan stint at Arsenal last season and still has two years remaining on his £325,000-a-week contract. Both the player and Chelsea are reportedly eager to secure a permanent resolution for his future, although another loan move remains a possibility.
The winger is one of several players targeted for departures in what has been termed an end-of-window “fire sale.” Chelsea are also focusing on arranging sales or loans for Christopher Nkunku, Nicolas Jackson, Renato Veiga, Axel Disasi, Carney Chukwuemeka, Ben Chilwell, and potentially Tyrique George. Argentine defender Aaron Anselmino has also piqued the interest of European clubs.
The Blues believe they could generate nearly £300 million through player sales by the window’s close, significantly lowering their net expenditure.
Sterling has attracted attention from Fulham, who are enthusiastic about keeping him in London, where his family are settled. West Ham and Crystal Palace have also been mentioned, while other Premier League and overseas clubs are keeping tabs on his situation.
Sterling has reportedly been told by manager Enzo Maresca that he will not feature for Chelsea this season. His omission from the club’s official website’s first-team section further emphasizes his current status.
The former Manchester City forward signed with Chelsea in the summer of 2022 for £47.5 million but has struggled to rediscover his peak form in recent years.
A Gentle Reminder: Every obstacle is a stepping stone, every morning; a chance to go again, and those little steps take you closer to your dream.
Nnamdi Okoli
