The future of Raheem Sterling at Chelsea was thrown into doubt after the winger was left out of Enzo Maresca’s matchday team to play Manchester City.
The 29-year-old featured heavily during pre-season and was expecting to start in the Blues’ first Premier League game of the season.
However, left out of the squad, Sterling’s omission promoted an unusual statement from his entourage stating the Englishman now wants clarification over his future.
Although adamant he wants to continue at Stamford Bridge, the winger could be forced out the door as the club looks to get a portion of his £325,000-per week wages off their books.
The forward’s huge contract, which doesn’t expire until 2027, has proved a major sticking point for any interested clubs this summer though. Juventus were rumoured to have held talks earlier in the window but withdrew their interest after it became apparent they wouldn’t be able to afford to bring the 29-year-old to Turin.
However, according to a recent report from HITC, although Sterling is wanted by teams in Saudi Arabia’s wealthy Pro League, he also has interest from two sides in the Premier League.
Crystal Palace and West Ham are thought to have shown an interest — although a loan move is the likeliest outcome for either side.
Palace have yet to replace Michael Olise after the Frenchman joined Bayern Munich earlier in the summer with West Ham short of options to provide competition and cover for new captain Jarrod Bowen.
Even though a move from either team depends on Sterling’s willingness to leave Stamford Bridge, should he be prepared to take on a new challenge, he could certainly have several options before the close of the window at the end of the month.
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