Chelsea Football Club is reportedly prepared to accept offers for winger Raheem Sterling when the transfer window reopens in January.
Sterling’s Chelsea exit nears as Club seeks January Sale
The club aims to remove his significant wages from their payroll and free up squad space for new additions.
Manager Enzo Maresca does not see the 30-year-old as part of his long-term project.
This stance was made clear in September when Maresca confirmed Sterling would not be reconsidered for the squad, noting the player trains separately from the first team. Sterling has not played a single minute for Chelsea this season.
A primary driver behind the potential move is financial. Sterling commands a substantial weekly wage, reported to be between £300,000 and £400,000.
Former Everton CEO Keith Wyness stated that for any transfer to happen, Chelsea might need to subsidise these wages or Sterling would have to accept a pay cut.
The club has been attempting to facilitate his exit for over a year. Sterling spent last season on loan at Arsenal but struggled for playing time and impact. His last appearance for Chelsea was in May of last year.
Among the clubs linked with a January move for Sterling is Leeds United.
According to well-connected former chief scout Mick Brown, Leeds is keen to bolster its attacking options and is considering a gamble on the experienced winger.
Brown believes a transfer is inevitable, stating on Football Insider, “He hasn’t been involved at all this season and he’s not a part of the manager’s plans there”.
He also noted that while clubs respect Sterling’s pedigree, there are concerns about his recent form and physical sharpness after a prolonged period without regular football.
For Chelsea, the focus is on finally resolving a lingering squad and financial issue.
A January sale or loan would achieve the dual objective of cutting costs and making room for players more aligned with Maresca’s vision.
