Chelsea have been approached by Aston Villa regarding the possibility of signing Raheem Sterling before the transfer window closes, according to a report.
Sterling's stint at Stamford Bridge is nearing its conclusion after a hectic few days, with both the player and the club now collaborating to secure a swift departure before next week's transfer deadline.
The former Manchester City attacker was excluded from the squad for last week's season opener, leading his representatives to release a statement calling for 'clarity' regarding his future.
New boss Enzo Maresca confirmed earlier this week that he had informed Sterling he would struggle to get playing time this season, as he prefers 'different kinds of wingers' in his lineup.
Several clubs, including the likes of Bayern Munich, Barcelona and Saudi teams have since been credited with interest in the 29-year-old, but it seems that he could now find an escape route from Chelsea while remaining in the Premier League.
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Villa in talks to sign Sterling before transfer deadline
According to The Guardian, Aston Villa have opened talks with the Blues over a possible move for Sterling before the transfer window slams shut next week.
The report adds that Unai Emery's team are still looking to add another attacking player to their ranks after missing out on Joao Felix, who joined Chelsea on a permanent deal this week.
It is understood that both the Blues and Sterling are keen on the move, but the situation is complicated by the fact that he still has three years remaining on his contract and is currently pocketing around £325,000 per week.
A loan deal with an obligation to buy remains a potential solution, but Sterling is believed to want a permanent move to allow himself to settle at a new club and try to reignite his international career.
The England international arrived at Stamford Bridge in 2022 for £50m and has scored 19 goals and provided 12 assists in 31 appearances over the past two years.
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Sterling not the only one likely to depart Stamford Bridge
Sterling is not the only Chelsea player likely to leave Stamford Bridge this season, as the club have reportedly made several others aware that they are surplus to requirements.
Among those players was Conor Gallagher, who secured a move to Atletico Madrid on Wednesday, just hours before the Blues announced the signing of Joao Felix.
Ben Chilwell and Romelu Lukaku are some of the bigger names who are currently training away from Chelsea's first team and are believed to be actively looking for moves away from West London before the transfer deadline.
Chilwell has been linked with a move to Manchester United in the last few days, while Lukaku is rumoured to be on his way to Napoli, with Victor Osimhen's future in Serie A currently in doubt.
Devesh Jaganath
