Napoli Chief Makes Raheem Sterling Admission As Ex-Chelsea Star Seeks New Club

Raheem Sterling’s attempt to engineer a swift return to top-level European football has suffered an early setback, after Napoli’s sporting director publicly cast doubt on a potential move to Serie A.

The England international is currently without a club after mutually terminating his Chelsea contract, but despite his availability and elite pedigree, Napoli have made it clear that a deal is far from straightforward.

Napoli Pour Cold Water On Sterling Transfer Links

Napoli had been loosely linked with Sterling following his exit from Chelsea, especially with Antonio Conte keen on experienced attackers. However, sporting director Giovanni Manna moved quickly to temper expectations.

Speaking to Sky Italy ahead of Napoli’s Champions League clash with Chelsea, Manna pointed to two major concerns: Sterling’s recent lack of competitive football and his financial demands.

“Raheem is very good, but he hasn’t been playing for a long time,” Manna said.

While confirming that contact was made during the summer window, he added:

“We spoke with him during the summer but I see it as difficult right now. He has significant financial expectations.”

For a Napoli side operating under tighter financial controls compared to Premier League giants, Sterling’s wage demands appear to be a major stumbling block.

Sterling Ends Chelsea Exile By Mutual Consent

Sterling officially became a free agent on Wednesday after Chelsea confirmed his departure by mutual agreement, bringing an end to a frustrating three-year spell at Stamford Bridge.

The winger had been frozen out of first-team plans for several months, training away from the senior squad. To facilitate his exit, Chelsea agreed to terminate his £325,000-per-week contract, which still had 18 months remaining.

In a short statement, the club said:

“Raheem Sterling has today departed Chelsea Football Club by mutual agreement. We thank Raheem for the contribution he made and wish him well for the next stage in his career.”

The move provides Chelsea with a significant wage saving, while giving Sterling full freedom to revive his career without transfer restrictions.

Open To A Permanent Move Abroad

With his contract now terminated, Sterling is free to sign for a new club immediately. Sources close to the 82-cap England international suggest that this change has widened his options considerably.

Previously, Sterling had been reluctant to leave London due to family considerations, particularly for a short-term loan. However, the security of a permanent deal has changed his stance.

Reports indicate that Sterling is now open to offers from abroad, believing that a move outside England could offer the clearest route back to regular football and top-level competition.

Having played for Liverpool, Manchester City, Chelsea and Arsenal, Sterling remains one of the most decorated free agents on the market. At 31, his camp believes he still has plenty to offer—if the right club is willing to meet his financial expectations.

For now, though, Napoli have made their position clear: admiration exists, but affordability remains the real issue.

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