Stefan Borson 'Surprised' After Chelsea Make Raheem Sterling Free Transfer Decision – 'He's Got to Go'

Chelsea have made a surprising decision on Raheem Sterling's future, leaving former Manchester City financial advisor Stefan Borson shocked. According to Borson, the Blues are now open to letting the winger leave on a free transfer, crystallizing a significant financial loss on the £47.5 million signing from 2022[1][3].

Sterling, 31, has been frozen out at Stamford Bridge under new manager Liam Rosenior, who replaced Enzo Maresca last week following behind-the-scenes disagreements. The England international has made just sporadic appearances this season and is yet to secure a move away despite interest from several clubs[3]. Borson, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, expressed his surprise at Chelsea's bold move amid their ongoing UEFA settlement constraints.

"I think they've decided he's got to go," Borson stated, highlighting the "hidden losses" tied to Sterling and teammate Mykhailo Mudryk. Chelsea's hierarchy is restrained in the January window due to squad cost controls and the impending squad cost ratio rules next season, which will exclude previous sales like the hotel and women's team deals from calculations[2].

Borson noted: "Raheem Sterling is still a player that they’re going to have to crystallise a loss on if they were to sell him or pay him off, impair the asset." This decision aligns with Chelsea's cautious approach, as their large squad limits further spending—potentially to just one incoming player despite hopes for a strong second half under Rosenior[2].

The free transfer option underscores Chelsea's shift under BlueCo ownership, prioritizing financial compliance over recouping fees on underperforming stars. Sterling's departure could free up wages and squad space, but it represents a stark admission of the deal's failure[1][2].

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