Chelsea are ready to sell Raheem Sterling and Noni Madueke this summer as Enzo Maresca looks to revamp his squad for the 2025/26 season. The decision is part of a wider strategy to cut the wage bill, reduce the bloat in the squad and build around younger, more consistent talent.
Form and fitness issues plagued both players last term, and it put into question their future at Stamford Bridge as well as their suitability in Maresca’s system.
Exit Doors Open for Madueke and Sterling
Chelsea have put Raheem Sterling and Noni Madueke on their list of players available for transfer, as per sources close to the club. Neither are certain to leave but the club are open to offers for both wingers as they go for a change of direction.
Sterling, who joined Chelsea from Manchester City in 2022, remains one of the highest earners at the club. But the inconsistency has the fans and staff nervous. He is the subject of interest from clubs in Saudi Arabia and Chelsea will sell at the right price — although there has been no formal bid.
And Madueke, for his part, has to date starred in fits and starts without really imposing himself as a regular starter. Still only 22 and under contract until 2030, he will no doubt interest Premier League and Bundesliga clubs – particularly those who need a right-sided attacker they can resell on for profit.
Chelsea’s Rebuild and FFP Focus
Under the new management of Enzo Maresca, Chelsea’s first priority this summer is shifting some of the deadwood on their books as well as keeping within Financial Fair Play rules. Selling high-wage players such as Sterling and perhaps collecting a fee for Madueke will help in that regard.
Chelsea are also making contingencies to cope with both wingers’ departure by looking at wide attacking targets available on the market. Chelsea could promote academy players like Omari Hutchinson and Diego Moreira to fill the gap in the short term.
