Raheem Sterling could leave Chelsea for six clubs after dropping controversial statement

Raheem Sterling’s Chelsea career appears to be hanging in the balance after his controversial statement on Sunday. The England international was left out of the Blues’ matchday squad as they opened their season with a 2-0 defeat to Manchester City, a decision that didn’t go down well with the player.

An hour before kick-off, Sterling’s camp released a fiery statement on social media questioning the player’s absence and demanding “clarity” on the situation. After the game, Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca offered Sterling little assurance over his future, telling reporters: “I want all 30 players but there is no space for all of them,” before insisting the winger’s omission was a “tactical” decision.

It leaves Sterling’s future at Stamford Bridge dangling by a thread. And with that in mind, Express Sport is running through six possible moves the 29-year-old could make before the transfer window shuts at the end of the month.

Newcastle

Sterling is on a hefty weekly wage of £325,000, and Newcastle are one of only a handful of teams in a position to afford anything near that sum. That said, after a period of intense spending, the Magpies may need to sell one or more of their key players to keep their finances in check.

However, this could play into Sterling’s hands, especially if Anthony Gordon, who has been linked with Liverpool, were to depart. Gordon’s exit would leave a significant gap on the left side of Eddie Howe’s attack – a void that Sterling could potentially fill.

Liverpool

It may seem unlikely, but what about a return to Liverpool? Arne Slot is keen to bring in a winger before the transfer window shuts and if Liverpool’s efforts to secure Gordon fall through, would a move for Sterling be all that unrealistic?

There may be some lingering resentment between the player and the club following Sterling’s high-profile move to Manchester City, but that was nine years ago – perhaps it’s time to let bygones be bygones? The move would likely appeal to Sterling as well, given Liverpool’s title aspirations and European reputation.

Juventus

Like Liverpool, Serie A heavyweights Juventus are also in the market for a new winger and could capitalise on the turmoil at Stamford Bridge. They’re eager to offload unsettled forward Federico Chiesa and it’s understood a proposal to swap Sterling for the Italian international could be put forward in the next few days.

However, considering the wealth of forwards in Chelsea’s ranks, as well as the imminent arrival of Joao Felix, a swap deal probably won’t suit the Blues. But a cash deal might, particularly since Sterling was linked with Juventus earlier in the window, suggesting some groundwork for the move may have already been laid.

Crystal Palace

Crystal Palace could be a potential destination for Sterling following Michael Olise’s £50million move to Bayern Munich. The Eagles are in need of more attacking prowess and have plenty of funds to spare, especially if Marc Guehi is sold to Newcastle.

Despite the club’s lack of top-half finishes since 2015, there are several appealing factors. Manager Oliver Glasner has been impressing with his attractive style of football, and a move would allow Sterling to remain in his home city of London.

Paris Saint-Germain

PSG may also be an option for Sterling, despite the recent signing of French prodigy Desire Doue. The Ligue 1 giants are no strangers to signing high-profile players on substantial wages, and although they’ve been investing in youth recently, a move for Sterling might be just what the doctor ordered for Luis Enrique’s side.

With the likes of Kylian Mbappe, Neymar and Lionel Messi now gone, Sterling’s experience and proven skill could alleviate some pressure from young talents such as Doue, Bradley Barcola and Warren Zaire-Emery.

Saudi Arabia

Sterling reportedly turned down a staggering offer from an unidentified Saudi Pro League club last summer, but he might reconsider if another proposal comes in this month. Without the restrictions of Financial Fair Play rules, Saudi Arabian clubs have the freedom to pay players and clubs as they wish, which could benefit both Chelsea and Sterling.

If his circumstances in west London cannot be resolved and leaving is inevitable, Sterling may need to make compromises. Cutting his salary is one option, but if he’s not keen on that, a move to the Gulf could be the most logical choice.