Chelsea have officially offered Raheem Sterling to Serie A leaders Napoli, with the club’s hierarchy intensifying efforts to offload their highest earner before the January deadline. The move comes as manager Liam Rosenior issued a blunt update regarding the "quadruple" of senior stars currently training away from the first team, confirming that there is no route back into his plans for the former England international.
Rosenior closes the door
Speaking ahead of Chelsea’s weekend fixture, Rosenior addressed the speculation surrounding Sterling, Ben Chilwell, and others in the so-called "bomb squad." According to reports from the Standard, the Chelsea boss was unequivocal, stating that the decision to exclude Sterling was "purely sporting" and that the winger has been advised to find a new solution for his career. This public dismissal has accelerated Chelsea's behind-the-scenes activity, leading to a direct approach to Napoli.
The Napoli Proposition
According to TNT Sports, Chelsea have presented Sterling to Antonio Conte’s side on favourable terms, potentially including a subsidised wage package to facilitate the move. Conte, who has revitalised Romelu Lukaku and Scott McTominay in Naples, is understood to be open to adding Sterling’s experience to his title-chasing squad, provided the financial burden is shared.
However, the player’s preference remains a significant stumbling block. As reported recently, Raheem Sterling rejects West Ham transfer overtures in the hope of landing a move to Fulham, but the Cottagers have so far refused to match the financial package required. Chelsea’s decision to offer him to Napoli suggests they are tired of waiting for a London rival to bite and are now trying to force Sterling’s hand towards Italy.
Financial Reality vs Player Preference
The situation is a classic standoff between financial imperative and personal preference. Chelsea need Sterling’s reported £325,000-a-week wages off the books to aid their PSR calculations for the summer. Sterling, settled in London with his family, is reluctant to uproot to Naples mid-season.
Market analysts have noted a shift in the Raheem Sterling next club odds, with Napoli shortening significantly following the news of Chelsea’s direct approach. If Fulham do not return to the table with a serious offer in the next 48 hours, Sterling may be forced to choose between a glamorous resurrection under Conte or six months of stagnation in the Chelsea reserves.