Graeme Souness believes Raheem Sterling’s future ‘lies in Saudi Arabia’ and doubts whether ‘any big Premier League team would want to sign’ the Chelsea winger.
Sterling is set to leave Chelsea after being informed he does not feature in the club’s plans, following two underwhelming seasons at Stamford Bridge.
The 29-year-old was not included in the squad to face former side Manchester City on the opening weekend of the Premier League season and released a statement seeking ‘clarity’ over his future.
Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca has revealed that he has informed the winger that he is surplus to requirements in West London and Sterling is now exploring his options before the transfer deadline.
Speaking on William Hill’s Three Upfront Podcast alongside Simon Jordan and Troy Deeney, Souness cast doubt on Sterling’s chances of a Premier League move and suggested the Saudi Pro League is his likeliest option.
“Raheem Sterling’s future lies in Saudi Arabia. He’ll go there for two reasons, one of those being the kind of money he’ll get there. I don’t think any team in this country will match that. I also don’t think any of the big Premier League teams would want to sign him, he’d price himself out of the market.
“The major problem for Chelsea with this business model is that when they want to get players out the door, they have to take a real hit on their value. They paid nearly £50 million for Sterling and they’ll get next to nothing for him. Then the buying team will ask Chelsea to contribute to his wages.”
