Alious
With the January transfer window fast approaching, Leeds United are gearing up for what could be a surprisingly active month — despite lingering concerns around Profit & Sustainability Rules. While early warnings suggested that further spending could risk sanctions or even a points deduction, LeedsUnited.News now reports that the club has both the financial capacity and PSR flexibility to reinforce Daniel Farke’s squad.
Fabrizio Romano has already revealed that Leeds are moving behind the scenes. Their bid for Como midfielder Martin Baturina was recently rejected, and they remain locked in competition with Nottingham Forest for Scottish talent Josh Mulligan. Now, another opportunity may have opened up — and it involves a player with Champions League pedigree.
### **Maresca Signals Openness to Sterling Exit**
Recent reports indicated that Leeds hold strong interest in Raheem Sterling, the England international who has struggled for game time at Chelsea. The Whites are not alone, however, as Crystal Palace are also tracking the winger. Sterling’s situation has been made more complicated by his omission from both Chelsea’s Premier League and Champions League squads this season.
On Tuesday, Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca appeared to leave the door wide open for a January departure, stating:
“Anything can happen with him,” he said, adding that Sterling — like Axel Disasi — remains a Chelsea player *for now*, but that the winter window could bring changes.
### **Would Sterling Be the Right Fit for Leeds?**
Leeds’ summer pursuits of Harry Wilson and Facundo Buonanotte highlighted the club’s desire for a creative attacking option capable of operating as a No.10 or out wide. Sterling is more naturally a winger, but his Premier League pedigree, goal threat, and experience remain undeniable.
The question, however, is whether Sterling can rediscover the explosive form he displayed under Pep Guardiola at Manchester City. Paul Merson previously argued that a move to Leeds would be logical for both sides, though the player ultimately stayed at Chelsea after a late-window loan to Bayern Munich fell through.
Even if Sterling is only performing at half the level of his prime years, his presence could significantly elevate Leeds’ attacking output. But it would likely require patience — he would need time, rhythm, and confidence to truly make an impact.
With Maresca publicly acknowledging uncertainty over Sterling’s future, January may offer Leeds their clearest chance yet to bring a high-profile England international to Elland Road.
Alious
