Fulham transfer news: Cottagers eyeing 'creative' £5m Sterling agreement with Chelsea

Fulham could reportedly attempt to sign Chelsea's winger Raheem Sterling in a £5m loan deal in the latter stages of the transfer window.

The 30-year-old is back at Stamford Bridge after spending a season on loan at London rivals Arsenal. 

Sterling was restricted to just seven starts in 17 Premier League appearances during a difficult loan spell with the Gunners.

Arsenal decided against pursuing a permanent deal, and with no pathway back to the Chelsea first team, Sterling needs to find a new club before the transfer window shuts on September 1.

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Fulham preparing 'creative' Sterling offer

Bayer Leverkusen have been mentioned as a potential destination, while Napoli have been offered the chance to sign the former Manchester City attacker.

Fulham have recently emerged as a possible option, with the Cottagers believed to be keeping a close eye on other targets.

Marco Silva's side are currently focusing on other targets, but according to Stefan Borson for Football Insider, Fulham could pursue a move for Sterling towards the end of the summer window.

The report claims that they could get 'creative' with a loan proposal due to the potential stumbling block of Sterling's significant salary, which is believed to be around £350,000 a week.

Fulham may look to strike an agreement with their West London neighbours over a deal that would see them pay a £5m loan fee and half of Sterling's wages.

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Why are Fulham considering Sterling?

Fulham are keen to strengthen their wide options after seeing two wingers leave at the end of the 2024-25 season.

Arsenal's Reiss Nelson was one of those who departed following his injury-hit loan spell at Craven Cottage.

However, Fulham have not been put off by Nelson's injury struggles, with the club working on a deal to bring him back to the club.

Even if Nelson signs, the Cottagers will surely look to sign another wide player to fill the void created by Willian's departure.

Sterling could be a useful addition to replace the experience of Willian, and Fulham may view him as a low-risk option if they are able to pull off a loan agreement with Chelsea.