Global Edition
Global Edition
UK Edition
EU Edition
US Edition

Understand the story, not the spin.

Markets

Sterling Poised to Exit Chelsea Before Deadline

Published 27 January 2026

Raheem Sterling is poised to depart Chelsea before the January transfer window closes on Monday, as ongoing talks between the club and the winger's representatives aim to resolve his uncertain future at Stamford Bridge.

The 31-year-old England international has not featured in a single match for Chelsea this season and has trained separately from the first-team squad since returning from a disappointing loan spell at Arsenal last year. Sources close to the negotiations indicate that Chelsea are eager to offload Sterling, who earns more than 300,000 pounds per week under a contract with 18 months remaining. A mutual termination of the deal appears increasingly likely, allowing both parties to part ways amicably and enabling the club to reduce its wage bill amid financial fair play considerations in the Premier League.

Sterling joined Chelsea from Manchester City in July 2022 on a five-year contract, arriving with high expectations after a successful stint that included 48 goals and 27 assists over two seasons at his former club. However, his time in west London has been marked by limited impact, with 81 appearances yielding modest returns. Last season, he moved to Arsenal on a...

Now playing
0:00 / 0:00