CaughtOffside revealed that the future of English winger Raheem Sterling with Chelsea has become unclear, as the club prepares to allow his departure during the winter transfer window, due to his limited playing time under coach Enzo Maresca and the difficulty of securing regular minutes.

The player's salary poses a financial burden on the club, making his departure a viable option whether through a permanent transfer, loan, or even mutual contract termination if no suitable deal is reached. Sterling has a record of 19 goals in 81 appearances for the Blues.

This move is part of Chelsea's strategy to control expenses, aiming to balance the wage structure and open opportunities for younger players. Sterling’s inconsistency and limited involvement have made him one of the main candidates to leave the club in January.

The player has attracted interest from several English Premier League clubs, with Crystal Palace expressing admiration for his experience and versatility. Their coach, Oliver Glasner, is keen to strengthen the attack due to some injuries.

Leeds United also sees Sterling as a potential addition to boost the team’s speed, creativity, and experience, while his name continues to circulate in European and other markets, with previous interest from Bayern Munich and renewed attention from Saudi league clubs.

Remaining in Europe remains a priority for Sterling to regain his form and reputation through consistent playing time, rather than pursuing a high-paying contract abroad. His departure in January seems a matter of time, with Crystal Palace emerging as the most likely club to sign him due to their standing in the league and playing style that suits his abilities.

If the deal goes through, it will mark the end of a turbulent chapter in Sterling’s career and offer him a chance to regain the brilliance that once made him one of the most dangerous attackers in English football.