Leeds United’s Transfer Window Decision: No Move for Ex-Chelsea Star as Target Prioritised
Leeds United have officially ruled out pursuing a move for former Chelsea winger Raheem Sterling, ending speculation linking the English attacker with a switch to Elland Road in the final days of the January 2026 transfer window. Sterling — whose Stamford Bridge career began in 2022 after a £47.5 million move from Manchester City — endured a difficult spell at Chelsea, won few fans during a loan at Arsenal, and had not played for the Blues during the 2025-26 season before his contract was terminated by mutual consent earlier this month.
With Leeds keen to strengthen their attacking options under manager Daniel Farke, Sterling’s free-agent status briefly piqued interest. However, the club’s hierarchy and coaching staff decided not to pursue a deal for the 31-year-old former England international, opting instead to prioritise other targets — particularly a striker able to complement or challenge Dominic Calvert-Lewin. The Whites’ stance reflects both tactical needs and caution over Sterling’s recent form, as the winger struggled to influence games during his time at Chelsea and on loan.
Sterling’s exit from Chelsea now concludes a troubled chapter: once considered one of the Premier League’s top wingers, his time at Stamford Bridge featured frustrations, injuries and exclusion from the first team, culminating in a mutual contract termination after nearly 18 months out of favour.
Instead of signing the ex-Chelsea star, Leeds have been focused on securing reinforcements at the heart of the attack. One of the club’s most persistent rumours this month has involved Wolves striker Jørgen Strand Larsen. Though not a Chelsea player, Strand Larsen has been an eye-catching figure in transfer circles, with sources indicating that Leeds remain interested despite competition from other Premier League clubs.
Reports suggest that Leeds have already seen an initial offer rejected by Wolves — believed to be worth around £39 million including add-ons — and that their rival suitors, notably Crystal Palace, had been prepared to agree a £50 million-plus deal. However, developments over the past 24 hours have complicated Palace’s pursuit of their own striker targets, potentially reopening the door for Leeds’ continued interest.
Strand Larsen — a Norway international — has had a mixed 2025-26 campaign, scoring only once in the Premier League so far, which has arguably reduced his perceived value. That said, Leeds see him as a forward with Premier League experience who could support Calvert-Lewin and help push the club further clear of the relegation zone.
Leeds’ decision to reject Sterling and concentrate on a striker addition reflects a broader team strategy to fortify their attack with players who can consistently score goals. Farke’s side sit precariously in the bottom half of the table, and goals have not come easily in key matches this season.
As the January transfer window winds down, Leeds United fans will be watching closely to see whether Strand Larsen or another forward — rather than a high-profile but out-of-form name like Sterling — can provide the spark needed to keep the Whites competitive for the remainder of the Premier League campaign.
