Sterling open to wage cut in Napoli talks

Raheem Sterling is in discussions with Serie A champions Napoli as the England winger looks to secure a fresh start following his departure from Chelsea.

The 31-year-old became a free agent last week after terminating his contract at Stamford Bridge by mutual consent and is now assessing options abroad, with Italy emerging as a strong possibility.

De Bruyne link boosts Napoli interest

Napoli’s pursuit of Sterling is being aided by Kevin De Bruyne, with whom the winger enjoyed seven successful seasons at Manchester City after both arrived at the Etihad in 2015.

The pair remain close, and a reunion in Naples is understood to be a major attraction for Sterling as he plans the next phase of his career.

Talks are ongoing, and Sterling is said to be open to reducing his wage demands to make a move viable. Securing regular football, competing in the Champions League and finding a move that suits his family are currently higher priorities than financial terms.

Wages and past attempts

Napoli sporting director Giovanni Manna admitted last week that Sterling’s “significant financial expectations” could make a deal “difficult”. However, the player’s willingness to compromise has reopened the possibility of an agreement.

The Serie A champions explored a loan move for Sterling last summer when he was earning around £325,000 a week, but negotiations collapsed at the time.

With Sterling now unattached, the deal structure is expected to be less complex.

Career reset after difficult spell

Sterling spent last season on loan at Arsenal, with Chelsea continuing to subsidise a large portion of his wages. He struggled for consistency and has not played a competitive match since May, when he featured in Arsenal’s 2-1 away win at Southampton.

Frozen out at Chelsea under former head coach Enzo Maresca and placed among players deemed surplus to requirements, the four-time Premier League winner is now focused on reviving his career at the highest level.

Napoli remain keen as they weigh the financial details, with Sterling’s future expected to be decided soon.