Stefan Borson: This is how much Chelsea likely paid to terminate Raheem Sterling’s deal
Chelsea have decided to terminate Raheem Sterling’s deal after he was frozen out for several months at Stamford Bridge.
There was speculation Sterling could stay at Chelsea after holding talks with Liam Rosenior, but a decision was taken last week to part ways.
Sterling responded instantly to the news, posting on social media “All eyes on the future. God is great”.
The 31-year-old is believed to have opened talks with several clubs about his next move after bringing his three-and-a-half-year spell at Stamford Bridge to an end.
Sterling had been training away from the Chelsea squad in recent months, while his last appearance for the club came in May 2024.
How Chelsea may have negotiated Raheem Sterling settlement
Former Man City financial adviser Stefan Borson exclusively told Football Insider Chelsea could have agreed a settlement worth between £20-25million with Sterling.
The winger, who spent last season on loan at Arsenal, earned around £325,000 a week during his time at Stamford Bridge, where his contract was due to run until June 2027.
Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, Borson said: “I mean, we spoke about it in September after the closing of the window last time, and I sort of thought that maybe what they would do is then have a chat with him.
“Now, they may well have done but just couldn’t agree terms at that point. Obviously, they’ve then worn let’s say another four months of his wages, which is not insignificant because he’s on probably £1.5m a month, something like that.
“They’ve worn that for four months, so there’s probably something like £6m between September and doing the deal now. He’s probably got what, maybe £25-30m left on the contract, and they’ll have done a deal at two thirds of it paid up, maybe a bit more. Maybe a £20-25m settlement.
“It’s great in some ways for Sterling. It certainly secures his financial future, as if that was ever in doubt.”
What options does Sterling have for his next club?
It is understood Napoli have made contact with Sterling’s representatives as he decides which club to join next.
West Ham are interested in signing Sterling alongside fellow Premier League rivals Fulham and Crystal Palace.
The 82-cap England international’s most recent appearance came for Arsenal on the final day of last season against Southampton.
Sterling registered one goal and five assists in 28 appearances for the Gunners, while he contributed 19 goals and 15 assists in 81 outings for Chelsea.
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