Why Napoli Might Bet On Raheem Sterling Despite Chelsea Nightmare

Napoli are considering a move for Chelsea winger Raheem Sterling, according to reports in Italy.

The Partenopei are working to strengthen their attacking ranks in January in pursuit of a second consecutive Scudetto triumph.

Meanwhile, Sterling has been frozen out at Chelsea, without a single competitive appearance to his name this season.

Raheem Sterling desperate to leave Chelsea as Napoli circle

According to Corriere dello Sport, Sterling is now seriously intent on leaving London, which has alerted Napoli.

The England international is reportedly looking to put an end to a Chelsea spell that has left him in limbo.

At 31, Sterling is desperate to return to action, and his profile as a versatile attacker appeals to the Napoli hierarchy.

Sterling, who has 82 England caps to his name, was a target for the Serie A club during the summer window.

Now, his name is doing the rounds again as sporting director Giovanni Manna evaluates low-cost opportunities to strengthen the squad.

How Napoli can revive Raheem Sterling’s career

Sterling was unstoppable in his prime, a winger who has played for some of England’s biggest clubs and won countless trophies.

Back in 2016, former England teammate Daniel Sturridge called him “one of the most talented players in the world”.

Sterling has certainly made the most of his potential, but over the past few years, things haven’t gone his way.

His loan stint at Arsenal last season proved fruitless, and he has been surplus to requirements at Chelsea since last summer.

Yes, Raheem Sterling was that good at winning penalties. pic.twitter.com/jvi7fE3jaQ

— Sky Blue Times (@theskybluetimes) November 8, 2025

However, Napoli have shown they have what it takes to revive careers of players who had been struggling.

Scott McTominay wasn’t a world-beater at Manchester United, but Napoli turned him into one of the world’s best midfielders.

Meanwhile, Rasmus Hojlund was considered a flop at Old Trafford, but now he is firing on all cylinders.

Napoli may fancy their chances of getting Sterling back to the kind of level that would make his current club lose face.

He would bring experience at the highest level and a level of talent that few players can match.

Sterling’s stock may not be high at present, but if anyone can awaken a sleeping giant, it’s Antonio Conte.

Why Sterling to Napoli could prove tricky

Sadly, there are a few roadblocks concerning Napoli’s interest in Sterling.

Firstly, finances are tight at the club, which means they may have to sell some players first.

However, should Napoli sell Luca Marianucci and Lorenzo Lucca, they will have more wiggle room to sign Sterling.

FootItalia relayed reports last summer claiming Chelsea valued Sterling at €23m.

Secondly, Chelsea cannot loan out any more players in January without first freeing up a slot.

The only options are either a permanent transfer or a termination of his contract, which expires in June 2027.

In the latter case, Sterling would have to forgo his nearly €20m per year salary (or agree to a severance package).

Whilst a move could be tricky from a financial perspective, it would give Sterling the chance to resurrect his career.