Fulham are reportedly leading the race to sign 30-year-old Chelsea attacker Raheem Sterling in the summer transfer window.
Chelsea’s summer overhaul continues to gather pace, and the latest name edging towards the exit door is Raheem Sterling. According to a report by TEAMtalk, Fulham have stepped up their interest in the 30-year-old, opening talks with the player’s representatives in a bid to bring him to Craven Cottage before the window shuts.
The Blues, keen to lighten their wage load and reshape the attacking department, are understood to be willing to sell Sterling for £20 million, a fee seen as more than fair for a player with his pedigree in the current stage of his career. While several clubs have shown interest, Fulham’s London location is believed to appeal strongly to the former Manchester City man, giving Marco Silva’s side a clear edge.
Sterling’s journey at Chelsea, which began with a £47.5 million switch from City in 2022, has never quite hit the heights expected. A loan move to Arsenal last season offered no real redemption, with just one goal in 28 games in all competitions. Back at Stamford Bridge this summer, his future looks increasingly elsewhere as the club seeks a leaner, more effective squad.
Fulham’s ambition could prove appealing
Fulham, meanwhile, are eager to make a statement of their own. After a promising campaign under Marco Silva, the Cottagers are aiming to consolidate their place in the upper half of the table, and signing a proven England international fits that ambition perfectly.
Sterling brings Champions League experience, blistering pace, and positional versatility, all traits Fulham feel could significantly boost their attacking edge. The fact that he is open to staying in London plays into their hands, and there’s confidence growing within the Fulham camp that a deal can be done.
However, it is not without its complications. Sterling’s salary demands remain high, and other interested parties are watching developments closely. Still, Fulham believe their stability and project under Silva make them an attractive proposition.
Chelsea exodus gathering steam
Should Sterling depart, he would join a growing list of attacking exits from Stamford Bridge. Jadon Sancho’s loan spell has ended, Noni Madueke has completed a move to Arsenal, and both Joao Felix and Christopher Nkunku have been made available for the right price. Even Nicolas Jackson, previously viewed as a core part of Chelsea’s future, is no longer considered untouchable.
This shift marks a clear message from the Chelsea hierarchy of stockpiling new talent. By trimming the squad and reducing wage commitments, the Blues are putting themselves in a better financial position to chase key targets before the window closes.
Win-win for all parties
From a Chelsea perspective, parting ways with Sterling at this point makes sense. His performances have not justified his wage, and with younger, hungrier players on the rise, keeping him would only complicate squad balance. At £20 million, the Blues won’t make back their full investment, but they gain something far more valuable, the freedom to evolve.
For Fulham, this could be a brilliant bit of business. If Sterling rediscovers even a fraction of his best form, he will prove to be a game-changer at Craven Cottage. And for the player himself, a move within London to a club offering regular minutes and a central role may be the spark he needs to reboot his career. Everyone wins if it gets over the line.
