Raheem Sterling appears destined to leave Chelsea this summer with the club now willing to sell permanently. In the last 48 hours, Chelsea have proposed the 29‑year‑old winger to Napoli, who are actively seeking attacking reinforcements following Khvicha Kvaratskhelia’s transfer to Paris Saint‑Germain earlier in the season. The club is ambitious to clear space and reshape the team before the 2025/6 season.
While there have been flashes of quality, Sterling has underwhelmed since moving from Manchester City in 2022 for £47.5m. With Enzo Maresca spearheading a new era at Stamford Bridge, the Blues remain committed to slimming their ranks and offloading high earners who don’t fit their long-term project.
Napoli explore winger market as Sterling joins shortlist
Napoli are currently pursuing a number of left-wing targets to reinforce their attack. Sterling is one of those names being considered, with Serie A outfit also having looked into Dan Ndoye from Bologna and Takefusa Kubo from Real Sociedad. All three have their respective profiles and Napoli are weighing up who to pursue with actual offers.
Napoli reportedly want a loan with shared wages, but Chelsea have made it clear they want a permanent exit exclusively. The Italian side are after both experience plus versatility, and not having the Champions League next term will play a part in terms of player choices and financial prudence.
Chelsea holding out for permanent bid as interest grows
Chelsea are also eager to tie up a permanent deal for Raheem Sterling to clear space on the wage bill and in the squad for talent such as Noni Madueke and Brazil sensation Estevão Willian.
Fulham have expressed an interest but have not made an offer. As it stands, Napoli are the only club to receive a formal enquiry for Sterling. His £300k+ a week wages are still a little problematic, but Chelsea are open to interesting deals if it means they can sell and move on.
As featured on Chelseanews.com
