Spurs target Sterling in talks to join Napoli

Free agent forward Raheem Sterling is in talks to join Serie A side Napoli. The winger is reportedly keen to reunite with former Manchester City teammate Kevin De Bruyne.

Sterling had his Chelsea contract terminated by the club last week by mutual consent and The Sun has now reported that the player is willing to take a wage reduction to refresh his career. Napoli are long term admirers of the player having enquired about a loan move last summer.

Sterling’s wage demands were seen as unrealistic for Napoli at the time, but are believed to be more feasible this time around. Sterling has endured a difficult few seasons, having been frozen out of the Chelsea picture by then manager Enzo Maresca during the 2023/24 season.

He then joined Arsenal on loan for the entirety of last season, but struggled for minutes in Mikel Arteta’s side. On his return to Chelsea, Sterling found himself a member of the bomb squad of players training away from the first club as he sought a move away.

The former England international now looks to be nearing a move that would pair him with good friend and former teammate Kevin De Bruyne. The two joined Manchester City at the same time in 2015 and spent seven years together at the club winning four Premier League titles.

Sterling has not played a competitive game since May of 2025 when he started in Arsenal’s 2-1 away win over Southampton. He had Premier League interest from Tottenham, Crystal Palace, Everton, and Fulham previously, but his then wage package of around £325,000 a week was believed to be a stumbling block.

The 31-year-old will feel he has more time at the top level and will likely relish a new challenge in Italy. Having spent his entire career in England, a move abroad could serve the player well.

Sterling would be joining not only De Bruyne, but former Manchester United players Rasmus Hojlund, Scott McTominay and Romelu Lukaku. Andre-Frank Anguissa and Billy Gilmour complete the list of former Premier League talent.

Nadji is a football writer with over 10 years of experience covering the Premier League. His work has been featured on Football Fancast, Arsenal-Mania, and Arsenal.com, where he has built a reputation for delivering sharp analysis, engaging storytelling, and in-depth coverage of the game.

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