Chelsea winger Raheem Sterling has set his sights on a move across London to Fulham as he seeks a permanent exit from Stamford Bridge in the January 2026 transfer window.
Sterling's London preference shapes transfer saga
The 31-year-old England international, who has found himself out of favour at Chelsea, has made his preference clear by turning down an approach from West Ham United. According to reports from The Times, Sterling now hopes Fulham will intensify their interest in securing his signature. The Cottagers had previously considered a move for the experienced forward earlier in the year.
Sterling's desire to remain in the capital is a key factor in his decision-making. Last summer, when he was part of a group of players deemed surplus to requirements at Chelsea, he was reluctant to join overseas clubs like Juventus or Bayer Leverkusen. His priority is to stay close to his family, making a switch to another London club the most appealing option.
Permanent deal the only acceptable exit
The former Manchester City star is adamant that he will only leave Chelsea on a permanent basis. He is not interested in another loan move unless it includes a compulsory obligation to buy. This stance comes after a temporary spell at Arsenal last season, where he reunited with former coach Mikel Arteta but largely remained a squad player.
Since returning to Chelsea, Sterling was not included in the plans of former manager Enzo Maresca. The Italian's departure on New Year's Day has created managerial uncertainty at the club, but as things stand, Sterling's position remains unchanged, and he is keen to secure a long-term move elsewhere.
How the transfer dominoes could fall
Sterling's potential path to Craven Cottage could be smoothed if Fulham's Adama Traore departs this month. New West Ham manager Nuno Espirito Santo is keen to add the Spanish winger to his squad as he gets his first chance to bolster the Hammers' lineup.
Meanwhile, West Ham, having been rejected by Sterling, are pressing ahead with other attacking reinforcements. The club, currently in the Premier League's bottom three, are close to a double forward signing worth upwards of £40 million to boost their survival hopes. A deal for Lazio striker Taty Castellanos, valued at around £25 million, is in the works, though personal terms are yet to be agreed. They have also lined up a £17 million move for Gil Vicente forward Pablo.
Sterling's £47.5 million move to Chelsea in 2023 has not reignited his career as hoped. Once the Football Writers' Association Footballer of the Year during his peak at Manchester City under Pep Guardiola, he has struggled to recapture that form in west London, scoring 19 goals in 81 appearances for the Blues.
