In a statement, the Blues said: “Raheem Sterling has today departed Chelsea Football Club by mutual agreement, bringing to an end three-and-a-half seasons as our player, having signed in the summer of 2022 when he was transferred from Manchester City. We thank Raheem for the contribution he made while a Chelsea player and wish him well for the next stage in his career.”

Shortly afterwards, the 31-year-old took to Instagram to address his followers with a brief statement. On his story, he posted: “All eyes on the future. God is great.”

Sterling leaves Chelsea having made 81 appearances in all competitions, scoring 19 goals and contributing a further 15 assists.

He became the club’s first marquee signing following their takeover by Todd Boehly and Clearlake Capital in 2022, joining from Manchester City for £47.5million.

The former England international was frozen out at the start of last season by former Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca, who deemed him surplus to requirements. He was subsequently loaned to Arsenal, playing 28 games for the Gunners in all competitions.

However, the 31-year-old was unable to establish himself as a regular starter and returned to Stamford Bridge at the end of campaign.

In the summer, he reportedly turned down proposed loan moves to Juventus and Bayer Leverkusen, expressing a preference to stay in England.

Sterling is reportedly set for a huge payout, given that he was earning around £325,000 per week under the tems of his Chelsea contract.

It’s been suggested by BBC Sport that the west Londoners will need to settle the remaining £22m in salary payments on his deal, which was set to run for another 18 months.

Sterling had been training away from the rest of Chelsea’s first-team squad before his contract was terminated. He is now said to be assessing his options regarding the next stage of his career.

Given that he is unattached, he will be able to sign for another club on a free transfer, meaning he won’t be in a rush to decide his next move ahead of Monday’s deadline.