BBC Sport report that Bayer Leverkusen are monitoring Raheem Sterling, with Erik ten Hag keen to sign the winger after previously failing to land him at Manchester United.
Chelsea winger Raheem Sterling has emerged as a surprise transfer target for Erik ten Hag’s Bayer Leverkusen — just months after the Dutch boss failed to sign him for Manchester United.
The Erik ten Hag Raheem Sterling transfer links have reignited after the 30-year-old returned to Stamford Bridge from a loan spell at Arsenal, where he made just five Premier League starts last season. Despite his £47.5m price tag in 2022, Sterling is not in new manager Enzo Maresca’s plans.
According to BBC Sport, Leverkusen are keeping tabs on the England international as Ten Hag looks to add experience and pace to his new-look Bundesliga side.
Why Sterling Is Back on Ten Hag’s Radar
Ten Hag reportedly pushed to bring Sterling to Old Trafford last summer in a deal that could have involved Jadon Sancho going the other way. While Sancho did join Chelsea, Sterling ended up at Arsenal on deadline day.
Now at Leverkusen, Ten Hag has revived his interest.
“We’re looking for energy, intelligence, and European-level pedigree — Sterling ticks all those boxes,” said a source close to Leverkusen’s recruitment team. — BBC Sport
How Leverkusen Could Use the England Winger
Ten Hag is known for his structured attacking systems. Sterling’s off-ball movement, versatility and pressing ability could suit Leverkusen's need for width and depth — especially after a shocking 5-1 loss to Flamengo’s U20s in pre-season.
Leverkusen have a strong record of developing English players, including wide men like Leon Bailey and Callum Hudson-Odoi. Sterling’s experience could fast-track Ten Hag’s plans in Germany.
Raheem Sterling — 2024/25 Season Stats (Arsenal, Loan)
| Competition | Appearances | Starts | Goals | Assists |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Premier League | 12 | 5 | 1 | 2 |
| All Competitions | 18 | 7 | 2 | 3 |
Could Chelsea and Leverkusen Agree a Deal?
Sterling still has two years left on his Chelsea deal. The Blues are open to offers, and a move abroad could suit both sides. With the winger’s high wages and Maresca’s tactical shift towards younger profiles, a Leverkusen move may be the cleanest exit route.
Leverkusen face Chelsea in a pre-season friendly on Friday, August 8, which could prove pivotal if talks progress.
Key Insights
- Erik ten Hag remains keen to sign Raheem Sterling, now with Leverkusen.
- Sterling is not in Chelsea’s plans after a poor loan at Arsenal.
- Leverkusen want experienced attackers after a poor pre-season start.
- Sterling’s contract runs until 2027 but Chelsea are open to a sale.
- A Chelsea vs Leverkusen friendly could accelerate negotiations.
What’s Next?
All eyes now turn to August 8, when Chelsea host Bayer Leverkusen in a pre-season clash at Stamford Bridge. It’s the perfect stage for Sterling — and Ten Hag — to send a message. If the winger features, it could be a final Stamford Bridge appearance. If he doesn't, the writing may already be on the wall.
Expect movement before the end of the window. And with Leverkusen known for making fast, smart deals, don’t be surprised if Sterling’s next chapter is confirmed before the Bundesliga kicks off.
Should Chelsea cut their losses and sell Sterling now — or is there still value in keeping him for the Premier League campaign?
1 Comment (last comment by Adem)
First read message
By Adem 22 Jul 2025 20:22
ill bring him myself to Leverkusen, no problem. Come in and let's talk.
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