Raheem Sterling told his future 'lies in Saudi Arabia' as Graeme Souness reveals the 'major problem' with Chelsea's transfer strategy amid wave of summer signings

The winger's situation at Chelsea has become precarious after new Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca excluded Sterling from the squad for their Premier League opener against Manchester City - which is a clear indication that he is not part of his plans for the season. The English forward has been granted permission to leave Cobham and his agents, along with the club, are looking for suitors before the transfer window comes to a close.

Speaking in William Hill’s new podcast, Three Up Front, Souness said: "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."

Souness also criticised Chelsea's approach in the transfer market as he believes that the club are overpaying on most occasions which is affecting their balance sheet and the larger efforts that are being made to comply with Premier League's Profit and Sustainability Rules.

"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," he said. "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.”

Despite the bleak outlook painted by Souness, Sterling has attracted interest from a Premier League club. Aston Villa have emerged as a potential destination for the winger, with the Birmingham-based club reportedly offering the chance to sign him. Additionally, Juventus have been linked with Sterling as they look to strengthen their squad ahead of the new season with Federico Chiesa on the verge of leaving Turin.

Sterling is allegedly hesitant to sanction a move to Saudi Arabia, as he hopes to revive his international career with England. However, with time running out, the pressure is mounting on the winger to decide his future.