After spending a significant amount on new signings this summer, Chelsea are trying to balance their books by parting with players who aren't in their long-term plans. They have made some progress, with the likes of Noni Madueke, Djordje Petrovic, and Kepa Arrizabalaga already away. And plenty seem headed to Strasbourg on loan.
However, the Blues have more players who may depart before the transfer window shuts. A recent report suggests that a Premier League club are interested in two of Chelsea's players.
It would be a very short trip for them if a move materialises. According to BBC, Fulham have expressed an interest in signing both Raheem Sterling and Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall this summer.
Although he hasn't been a regular starter, Dewsbury-Hall, who was signed from Leicester City just a year ago, has consistently contributed off the bench. He is still valued as a Blues squad player, and there is no indication that he wants to leave, but the same cannot be said for Sterling.
Premier League rivals interested in signing two Chelsea players
Sterling, who moved to Chelsea from Manchester City in 2022 for £47.5m, has struggled to reproduce his brilliant form at Stamford Bridge. In 81 games, he has only managed 19 goals for Chelsea. He was sent to Arsenal at loan last season, but he failed to make an impact there as well, scoring just 1 goal in 28 appearances for the Gunners.
As a result, the 30-year-old doesn't seem to have a future at Stamford Bridge. Sources claim Chelsea's strong preference is to part ways with Sterling permanently, and they have set an asking transfer price of £20 million.
And now the club's west London neighbours have emerged as a potential destination for the player. Fulham are yet to make their first signing this summer, but Marco Silva is looking to bring Arsenal's Reiss Nelson back to Craven Cottage.
As for Sterling, a change of scenery is at utmost need to revive his career, as he has that quality and experience to deliver and Fulham are aware of it. It might be a point in his career where he needs to be a big fish in a small pond rather than trying to play for one of Europe's elite.
Chelsea would benefit financially from the deal, allowing them to pursue their own goals. Now it remains to be seen whether the Cottagers will be able to sign the English international this summer.