Chelsea transfer news: Raheem Sterling 'draws up' exit plan after failing to secure summer move

Chelsea winger Raheem Sterling has reportedly made a decision over how to handle his short-term future.

Upon returning from a loan stint at Arsenal, the England international are aware that he would not be reintegrated back into Enzo Maresca's squad.

As such, he has trained away from the first team in an effort to keep himself fit ahead of what was perceived to be a likely transfer before the September 1 deadline.

However, despite being linked with a move to Fulham, nothing materialised for the 30-year-old who is now left in limbo.

According to The Standard, Sterling has already decided whether he will entertain a move to a league whose transfer window is yet to shut.

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What decision has Sterling made on Chelsea future?

The report claims that the former £47.5m man is not interested in moving to a team abroad over the coming weeks.

Turkey, Saudi Arabia and the United States have all been suggested as potential destinations, yet they are not perceived as tempting by Sterling at this stage.

Instead, Sterling is of the opinion that he is prepared to bide his time and sit out the next four months before readdressing the situation in January.

Earlier on Tuesday, there was the suggestion that Chelsea could discuss whether to try to find a mutual agreement over ending Sterling's contract almost two years before it expires in 2027.

That would allow Chelsea to make a certain level of saving on Sterling's wages, while the player would be free to entertain a new challenge.

With no clubs prepared to pay a substantial fee for Sterling, it is a move that seemingly makes logical sense for all parties.

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Key factor in Sterling's decision

As has been stressed in recent weeks, Sterling is eager to remain in London for family reasons.

Therefore, the options available to him are restricted with only Fulham and West Ham United having seemingly shown any interest.

For the time being, Sterling will continue to train away from the senior crop and there is no prospect of being selected in Chelsea's Premier League or Champions League squads.