Raheem Sterling could be set for a way out of Chelsea, with Fulham showing interest in the out-of-favour winger, while West Ham’s advances have already been turned down.
The Times reports that both Fulham and West Ham have enquired about the 31-year-old, but Sterling rejected West Ham’s proposal and is now waiting to see whether Fulham decide to step up their pursuit. Fulham had previously looked into signing him earlier in the year.
When Chelsea placed Sterling among their surplus players during the summer, he declined offers from Juventus and Bayer Leverkusen, choosing instead to remain in London for family reasons.
Sterling is understood to be seeking a permanent exit rather than another loan. He spent last season on loan at Arsenal, reuniting with Mikel Arteta, but featured mainly as a squad option with limited minutes.
Back at Chelsea, he remained outside Enzo Maresca’s plans. It is uncertain whether that will change following Maresca’s departure on New Year’s Day, but Sterling is currently unwilling to accept another temporary move unless it includes an obligation to buy.
West Ham, meanwhile, are preparing to spend more than £40 million on attacking reinforcements in their bid to escape relegation. The club are close to agreeing a £25 million deal for Lazio forward Taty Castellanos.
Although personal terms are still being finalised, West Ham have also lined up a £17 million move for Gil Vicente’s Pablo to boost their attacking options.
Elsewhere, Nottingham Forest boss Nuno Espírito Santo is keen to add a wide player and has set his sights on Fulham’s Adama Traoré. Should Traoré leave Craven Cottage, it could clear the path for Fulham to move for Sterling.
Sterling joined Chelsea in 2023 hoping to revive his career after a difficult spell at Manchester City. However, the former Football Writers’ Association Player of the Year has struggled to regain his best form in west London, scoring 19 goals in 81 appearances for the club.
