Raheem Sterling’s time at Chelsea has come to an abrupt end after the club confirmed the immediate termination of the winger’s contract, allowing him to leave Stamford Bridge as a free agent.

The decision brings the curtain down on a challenging spell in west London for the England international, whose last competitive appearance for the Blues came in May 2024. Sterling, 30, is now free to negotiate with any club as he looks to begin a new chapter in his career during the current transfer window.

Chelsea sources say the move was reached by mutual agreement, with both parties keen to bring clarity to the player’s future. Sterling joined Chelsea from Manchester City in 2022 with high expectations, but his spell at the club was marked by inconsistency, managerial changes and limited opportunities in recent months.

Despite flashes of his experience and quality, Sterling struggled to cement a regular starting place as Chelsea continued their rebuild under a new footballing structure. His departure is also expected to ease pressure on the club’s wage bill as they reshape the squad.

Sterling’s exit has sparked immediate speculation about his next destination, with clubs in the Premier League and abroad monitoring his situation closely. With a wealth of experience at the highest level, including multiple league titles and major international tournaments, the winger remains an attractive option for sides seeking proven pedigree and pace in attack.

As Chelsea move on without one of their most high-profile signings of recent years, attention now turns to where Sterling will land next and whether he can rediscover the form that once made him one of English football’s most feared forwards.