West Ham Backed to Complete Heavily Subsidised Raheem Sterling Deal

Football finance expert Stefan Borson has backed West Ham United to secure a heavily subsidised deal for Chelsea's out-of-favour winger Raheem Sterling in the January 2026 transfer window. Sterling, 31, has been training separately from Chelsea's first-team squad under head coach Enzo Maresca, who deems him surplus to requirements, alongside players like Axel Disasi and Tyrique George[1][4].

Chelsea are eager to offload Sterling, whose £325,000-per-week contract runs until June 2027, and are reportedly willing to cover a significant portion of his wages to facilitate a move[1][3]. This subsidy makes a transfer feasible for mid-table Premier League clubs like West Ham, who have long sought attacking reinforcements to complement Jarrod Bowen. Sterling's proven record—123 Premier League goals and 75 assists in 396 appearances—positions him as an ideal addition for the Hammers, capable of playing on either flank or as a starter if he regains form[3].

West Ham's interest aligns with Sterling's preference to remain in London for family reasons, particularly since his son Thiago joined Arsenal's youth academy[1]. While Fulham and Crystal Palace have also entered the race, alongside European suitors like Bayer Leverkusen, Juventus, and Napoli, Borson believes West Ham's need for goals and Chelsea's desperation give them the edge[1][5][6]. A loan deal, similar to Sterling's previous Arsenal stint, could materialise later in the window as options dwindle and wage negotiations intensify[3].

Despite no confirmed deals yet in January 2026, with the window open until February 2, speculation is rife. Borson warns that Sterling's high wages remain the main hurdle, but Chelsea's financial motivation could lead to a "bargain" for the Irons, boosting their European push[1][5].

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