Transfer News: 'Bomb squad' member Raheem Sterling set for Chelsea exit as clubs monitor situation

Chelsea have set a £20 million price tag for Raheem Sterling, with the former Arsenal star preferring to join a London-based Premier League club, per Metro UK.

After winning the Club World Cup and spending over £210 million on seven signings, Chelsea are struggling to offload unwanted players.

The Blues have sold Noni Madueke, Kepa Arrizabalaga, and Djordje Petrovic, but Sterling, whom Enzo Maresca deemed surplus last summer, remains on the books.

The 30-year-old spent last season on loan at Arsenal, managing just one goal in 28 appearances, and the Gunners decided not to bring him back.

The Sun reports Chelsea will accept less than £20 million for the 82-cap England international, far below his 2022 Manchester City fee.

His £325,000-a-week wages are a problem for prospective buyers, and the player has reportedly made it clear his desire is to stay in London, shunning Saudi and MLS moves.

Crystal Palace showed interest last summer, but it’s unclear if they, Brentford, Fulham, or West Ham will pursue him after his poor season.