Raheem Sterling in talks to join fifth Premier League club in shock move from Chelsea nobody expected

Raheem Sterling’s Premier League journey might be about to take another surprising turn, as reports have emerged suggesting he is currently in discussions to join a fifth English top-flight club. After an underwhelming return to Chelsea, the 30-year-old winger appears to be on the brink of yet another career twist that few saw coming.

Sterling, once considered one of the brightest talents in English football, spent the 2024/25 campaign on loan at Arsenal. Although he managed to rack up 28 appearances under Mikel Arteta, his contributions — one goal and five assists — did little to convince the Gunners to make the deal permanent. It now seems Arsenal have closed the door, and Chelsea are also not keen to reintegrate him into the squad.

Back at Stamford Bridge, Sterling has found himself training away from Enzo Maresca’s first team, signaling a clear indication that he’s no longer part of Chelsea’s long-term plans. Despite being one of the most experienced forwards in the squad, Maresca has made it known that Sterling does not fit into his tactical setup.

The situation has prompted several clubs to show interest in snapping up the former England international. According to talkSPORT, Crystal Palace are monitoring developments closely, while Juventus have also made tentative enquiries. However, it’s Fulham who appear to be leading the race for his signature.

FourFourTwo reports that Fulham boss Marco Silva has held talks with Sterling’s representatives. The west London side are keen to strengthen their attacking options ahead of the new season and see Sterling as an experienced addition who could bring pace, leadership, and big-game experience to the squad.

Sterling’s move to Fulham, if completed, would mark his fifth club in the Premier League, having previously represented Liverpool, Manchester City, Chelsea, and Arsenal. Despite a career filled with silverware and international recognition, his recent trajectory suggests a player in search of purpose and consistency once again.

Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca has been clear about Sterling’s status since the pre-season. Speaking to the media shortly before Sterling left for Arsenal, Maresca admitted that he preferred a different type of winger for his system. “I’m not saying Raheem lacks quality, but I prefer a different profile,” he explained bluntly.

Maresca also revealed that he had spoken to Sterling privately before their season opener against Manchester City, making his position within the squad crystal clear. “I explained everything to him the day before the City game. I haven’t seen him since,” Maresca added, a comment that underscores how final the decision was.

At the time, Sterling wasn’t the only senior player facing exile from the first team. Defender Ben Chilwell was also training separately, and Maresca confirmed their situations were “quite clear” from the outset. It was a message that left little room for ambiguity — Sterling had no future under his watch.

Now, Fulham could offer him a lifeline. While they may not be title contenders, they can offer regular football, a key role, and the opportunity for Sterling to revive a career that has stagnated. For a player of his calibre, playing week in, week out could be exactly what’s needed to reignite his spark.

Whether Sterling will accept a move to a less glamorous club remains to be seen, but one thing is clear — the winger is at a crossroads in his career. Having already achieved more than most players dream of, this next move could define the final chapter of his Premier League story.

As Fulham prepare for their Premier League opener against Brighton, the clock is ticking. The next few days could determine whether Raheem Sterling dons a Fulham shirt next season, or whether another twist awaits in the ongoing saga of one of England’s most talked-about footballers.