Chelsea have announced the mutual termination of Raheem Sterling’s contract after three-and-a-half seasons, ending a period of limbo that stretched over more than 18 months.

Sterling joined Chelsea from Manchester City for £47.5 million in 2022 and made 81 appearances for the club before his departure.

Chelsea thanked him for his contributions and wished him well as he looks to embark on a new chapter in his career.

With options open beyond London, Sterling’s representatives explored a permanent move rather than a loan, amid reported interest from clubs including Fulham and Napoli.

The exit was accelerated by talks that highlighted location constraints—his family based in London—and the large remaining contract value.

Sterling did not reintegrate under the new Chelsea manager and had limited involvement with the first team during the final period of his time at the club.

Interest from Juventus and Bayer Leverkusen featured in early discussions, and a move to Fulham did not materialize despite consideration.

Chelsea were in talks about a potential move that would allow Sterling to leave, with Juventus and Bayer Leverkusen among interested clubs and Fulham briefly discussed.

Several clubs were linked to Sterling, but no deal was completed as the club pursued a permanent transfer rather than a loan.

Chelsea’s broader transfer context included discussions around Cole Palmer and the manager’s stance on his role, described as untouchable by the club.

Rennes’ Jeremy Jacquet has shown interest in joining Chelsea, with talks ongoing about a potential summer loan or transfer.

Wages and London relocation issues were cited as obstacles to selling Sterling, with potential suitors like Fulham, Crystal Palace, and West Ham in the mix, and Sterling now open to leaving London.