Raheem Sterling heads into the final week of the summer transfer window with his future at Chelsea hanging in the balance. The England international, who joined the Blues from Manchester City in 2022, has struggled to hit his best form at Stamford Bridge and now finds himself among the group of players Chelsea are keen to move on.
After a subdued loan spell at Arsenal last season—where he managed just one goal and five assists in 28 appearances—the 30-year-old winger is still waiting for clarity over his next destination. Chelsea are reportedly willing to sanction his sale for around £20 million, a significant drop from the £47.5 million they originally paid City for his signature.
Sterling’s Recent Record
- 2024/25 (Arsenal, loan): 28 appearances, 1 goal, 5 assists
- 2023/24 (Chelsea): 43 appearances, 10 goals, 11 assists
- 2022/23 (Chelsea): 38 appearances, 9 goals, 4 assists
While Sterling has delivered occasional flashes of quality since leaving Manchester City, his overall influence has waned, leaving Chelsea with a difficult decision as they continue their rebuild under new ownership.
Fulham Move Gathering Pace
Reports suggest a cross-London switch to Fulham is now firmly on the table. Journalist Simon Phillips has claimed that Chelsea co-owner Behdad Eghbali was spotted in conversation with Fulham owner Shahid Khan at the weekend, with Sterling’s name on the agenda. Talks are said to be progressing positively, with an expectation that a deal could soon be accelerated.
Sterling himself is understood to be open to the move, viewing Fulham as an ideal fit given the location and the opportunity to play regular Premier League football. Marco Silva’s side currently boast wide options including Harry Wilson, Alex Iwobi, and Adama Traoré, but Sterling’s experience at the highest level would add proven pedigree to their attacking unit.
A Fresh Start at Fulham?
The question now is whether Sterling can reignite his career at Craven Cottage. His loan at Arsenal highlighted the danger of limited playing time, with the forward often confined to the bench. At Fulham, however, there is a stronger likelihood of consistent minutes, making the potential transfer a win-win situation for both player and club.
Having already represented Liverpool, Manchester City, Chelsea, and Arsenal, a move to Fulham would add another chapter to what has been a remarkable Premier League journey. At 30, Sterling still has plenty to offer, but he needs the right environment to rediscover the spark that once made him one of the league’s most dangerous forwards.
With the clock ticking on the transfer window, Fulham may yet provide the stage for his revival.
