Fulham step in as Sterling weighs Chelsea departure

European interest grows as Sterling’s next chapter takes shape

Raheem Sterling’s underwhelming Chelsea stint has caught the attention of several European clubs sensing an opportunity. According to Fabrizio Romano, the winger has been offered to Napoli; manager Antonio Conte is known for his preference for players with Premier League experience. Juventus and Bayer Leverkusen are also closely monitoring the situation. The Telegraph reports that both clubs are paying attention to developments, particularly as Chelsea appear open to receiving offers for the player.

From City glory to Arsenal limbo: a stalled career trajectory

Sterling joined Chelsea after winning four Premier League titles with Manchester City, but has failed to meet expectations at Stamford Bridge. Last summer, manager Enzo Maresca excluded him from the squad, prompting a loan move to Arsenal.

Yet his stint at Arsenal failed to provide the revival he was seeking. During the 2024–2025 season, Sterling featured in 28 matches across all competitions, contributing just one goal and five assists. He started only seven Premier League matches and failed to establish any rhythm or consistency. One particularly unlucky episode came against Bournemouth: Sterling was named in the starting XI but was substituted in the 37th minute following William Saliba’s red card, which forced a tactical reshuffle.

Fulham offer capital escape route for Sterling

The most eye-catching development within England involves Fulham. According to The Telegraph, Chelsea’s west London neighbours are preparing to open official talks to sign Sterling. Such a move would let Sterling remain in London while seeking a more stable platform to rebuild his form.

Fulham are yet to make a single signing this transfer window and currently remain the only Premier League club not to have added a new player. That context makes a move for Sterling one of the summer’s potentially headline-grabbing deals. The club previously took chances on players like Emile Smith Rowe, those whose form had dipped but still had something to prove. Sterling is not a prospect in need of moulding, but a seasoned international aiming to prove he still belongs at the highest level.

Salary remains the central complication

Sterling still has two years remaining on his Chelsea contract, which includes one of the Premier League’s highest wages. According to Capology, the 29-year-old currently earns £325,000 per week, equivalent to roughly £16.9 million per year. That figure presents a major financial hurdle for Fulham. However, should Chelsea agree to cover part of the salary, or if the clubs find a creative solution, the likelihood of a deal would rise sharply.

As the end of the transfer window approaches, Fulham’s interest is expected to move from exploratory to concrete. For Sterling, this opportunity represents a chance to reset a career that has stalled. For Fulham, it could be a low-risk, high-upside signing: a seasoned player whose top-level experience could translate into immediate impact, if given the right context.