Crystal Palace and Leeds United are both interested in signing Chelsea outcast Raheem Sterling in January.
Raheem Sterling is no longer a part of Chelsea’s plans, and his future has been up in the air for some time. The London club are ready to sanction his departure in the upcoming transfer window.
According to a report from CaughtOffside, Leeds United and Crystal Palace have emerged as potential destinations for the veteran English forward, who hasn’t played a single minute this season.
Sterling joined the Blues in the summer of 2022 from Manchester City. During his time at the club, he has been involved in 81 matches and has bagged 19 goals and 15 assists. He spent the last season on loan at Arsenal.
While Mikel Arteta was keen on having him in his squad, the 31-year-old didn’t have the desired impact. Following his return to the club in the summer, Chelsea were ready to offload him. But things didn’t go according to plan for them.
Enzo Maresca has yet to use him in any of their games, and with his surplus to requirements, the London want to get him off their books, as his massive wages are posing a major financial burden for the club.
With his contract running until the summer of 2027, Chelsea want to sort out his future in January. The London club are open to a permanent transfer, loan move, or even a mutual termination if nothing materialises.
Sterling could move to another English club
While clubs from abroad are keen on his signature, Sterling wants to continue in Europe and preferably in England, where Crystal Palace and Leeds are keen on his signature.
The Eagles have expressed admiration for the English forward because of his versatility and experience. With Oliver Glasner keen on adding more depth to his attack, he could prove to be a very valuable addition. Ismaila Sarr is set to leave for the African Cup of Nations, and bringing in Sterling at the start of January could certainly help.
Meanwhile, Leeds, who are looking to avoid the drop, are also interested in the 31-year-old. He could prove to be a marquee signing for them, and he certainly has the pace, creativity and experience to help them out.
