Ex-Liverpool star Raheem Sterling gets transfer hope to end Chelsea nightmare

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Ex-Liverpool star Raheem Sterling could be set to leave Chelsea for Napoli in the January transfer window, with the Italian team reigniting its interest in the England winger

Raheem Sterling could finally leave Chelsea in January(Image: Getty Images)

Serie A team Napoli could provide former Liverpool and Manchester City winger Raheem Sterling with an escape route from his Chelsea woes.

The England star, who started his professional career on Merseyside, has turned out to be a disappointing acquisition for the Blues following his transfer from City. Sterling has been left out in the cold in recent seasons and was loaned out to Arsenal last term.

He continues to be sidelined this season, not having been included in the Blues' Premier League squad by former manager Enzo Maresca; Liam Rosenior is now in charge at Stamford Bridge. However, his torrid time at Chelsea could soon be over.

As per Corriere dello Sport, current Italian champion Napoli has rekindled its interest in Sterling, having previously shown interest in him during the summer.

It's suggested that Antonio Conte is keen to bolster his attacking options. However, any potential move hinges on generating funds, as finances are currently tight.

Luca Marianucci and Lorenzo Lucca could both depart the Stadio Diego Armando Maradona before the January window closes, freeing up space for Sterling.

Sterling spent last season on loan at Arsenal(Image: Getty Images)

If he does make the switch to Napoli, he would join the ranks of Premier League players who have chosen to start afresh in Naples, with the risk of repeating their rival's blunder a real concern.

Former Manchester United pair Scott McTominay and Rasmus Hojlund have both joined the Italian club in recent seasons.

The Scottish midfielder has tasted considerable success, having aided the club in securing the Serie A title last season. McTominay is the reigning Serie A MVP.

Hojlund has been a standout performer since his move last summer. Initially joining Napoli on loan with an option to buy, he's netted nine goals in all competitions - outscoring any current United player.

Sterling will be hoping for a similar resurgence if he makes the move to Italy. The 31-year-old hasn't seen competitive action for Chelsea since the 2023-24 season and still has 18 months remaining on his current contract.

Sterling isn't the only player Chelsea need to make a decision about. French defender Axel Disasi has also been omitted from the club's Premier League squad for the season and is expected to seek a departure before the month's end.

These decisions will likely rest with the club's transfer chiefs, as new manager Rosenior focuses on preparing for his first match at the helm.

The 41-year-old, who replaced Enzo Maresca earlier this month, will oversee his inaugural game on Saturday when Chelsea face Championship side Charlton Athletic in the third round of the FA Cup.