Raheem Sterling has parted ways with Chelsea by mutual consent after three-and-a-half seasons at Stamford Bridge. The winger hasn't featured in a competitive match for the Blues since the conclusion of the 2023/24 season. Sterling found himself sidelined from the squad at the start of the 2024/25 campaign when Enzo Maresca took the reins, subsequently signing for Arsenal on loan.

His stint at the Emirates Stadium didn't pan out as expected and he returned to Chelsea last summer. He was lined up for loan moves to Juventus and Bayer Leverkusen in the summer, but he turned down both opportunities. Since then, the 31-year-old has been training separately from the first team and an agreement has now been reached to conclude his spell in west London.

In a statement, Chelsea confirmed: "Raheem Sterling has today departed Chelsea Football Club by mutual agreement, bringing to an end three-and-a-half seasons as our player, having signed in the summer of 2022 when he was transferred from Manchester City.

"We thank Raheem for the contribution he made while a Chelsea player and wish him well for the next stage in his career."

Sterling leaves Chelsea having made 81 appearances in all competitions, scoring 19 goals and contributing a further 15 assists.

He became the club's first marquee signing following their takeover by Todd Boehly and Clearlake Capital in 2022, joining from Manchester City for £47.5million.

It was reported earlier this week that the Blues would be open to terminating Sterling's contract ahead of schedule. However, his £325,000-per-week wages were said to have been a sticking point.

According to BBC Sport, Chelsea will need to pay the full £22m remaining on the final 18 months of Sterling's deal after the decision was made to part ways.

Liam Rosenior, meanwhile, said earlier this month that he would be holding talks with the England international to discuss the next stage of his career.

Speaking last week, the Chelsea manager revealed: "We're in conversations at the moment about different things and different options that are going on in his career. And hopefully that will be clearer in the next few days."

Asked for an update before the Champions League game against Napoli on Wednesday night, Rosenior replied: "No, at the moment, I've said what I've had to say on Raheem.

"He's a player I have massive respect for. Huge respect for him as a person and for what he's achieved in the game. Now is not the right time to speak about his situation."