Sterling on the Transfer Radar: Chelsea Weighs Offloading Amid Wage Woes and Napoli Interest

Overview

Chelsea are actively weighing several options to facilitate the departure of England winger Raheem Sterling during the January transfer window. Sterling, 31, spent last season on loan at Arsenal after falling out of former coach Enzo Maresca's plans.

Although a managerial change brought Liam Rosinior to the helm, Sterling remains out of the first-team picture, training alone after failed permanent moves in the summer.

Financial Hurdles and External Interest

BBC reports that the club is primarily leaning toward a permanent sale, while not ruling out a mutual contract termination or another loan move.

The report highlights a major obstacle: Sterling's weekly wage of £325,000, the highest in Chelsea's squad.

If a termination is pursued, Chelsea would reportedly owe around £22 million for the remaining 18 months of the deal.

Outside Chelsea, Napoli have shown interest, with the Italian champions among the leading suitors; Arsenal previously had Sterling on loan last season, illustrating the wider interest.

Outlook and Next Steps

Sterling's exit will hinge on wage concessions and whether a club meets Chelsea's asking price. The options include a permanent sale, a mutual contract termination, or another loan spell.

Punchlines: Sniper-style humor to close things off:

Punchline 1: Chelsea's payroll is so tall that even a sniper would need a ladder to line up the next contract.

Punchline 2: If Sterling stays, Chelsea might need a mortgage just to sign him again.