Two Ligue 1 clubs reject chance to sign former Arsenal winger Raheem Sterling

Former Arsenal winger Raheem Sterling has been offered to two Ligue 1 clubs as he searches for his next move as a free agent. According to Foot Mercato, Sterling's representatives have recently approached two French top-flight sides, including Le Havre, over a potential deal.

However, both clubs decided against pursuing the opportunity to sign the 31-year-old, leaving his immediate future unresolved. Le Havre reportedly believe they already have sufficient options in Sterling's position and therefore chose not to progress discussions despite his considerable experience.

The identity of the second Ligue 1 club has not been disclosed. Sterling is understood to be prepared to make significant financial compromises to secure his next opportunity and is open to continuing his career outside England.

The former England international is available on a free transfer after his short spell with Feyenoord ended following the conclusion of the 2025/26 season. Sterling joined the Rotterdam club in February on a contract until the end of the campaign, having terminated his Chelsea deal by mutual consent the previous month.

The move represented an opportunity to rebuild his career under former Arsenal striker Robin van Persie after a difficult period in English football. Sterling had spent the 2024/25 season on loan at Arsenal, having arrived at the Emirates Stadium from Chelsea on deadline day.

The winger struggled to establish himself as a regular under Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta, however, and returned to Stamford Bridge after the campaign. His Arsenal spell produced 28 appearances across all competitions, with Sterling scoring once and providing five assists before the Gunners decided against pursuing a permanent deal.

Sterling subsequently found himself outside Chelsea's plans before the two parties agreed to terminate a contract which had originally been due to run until 2027. Feyenoord then offered him another route into regular football, with the Dutch club highlighting his extensive experience when announcing his arrival in February.

Sterling has won four Premier League titles and made 82 appearances for England during a career which has also included spells with Liverpool and Manchester City. His search for another club has now become more complicated after the approaches in France failed to produce an agreement.

Sterling's representatives are nevertheless understood to be exploring other opportunities, including possibilities outside Europe's major leagues. For the former Arsenal loanee, the priority will be finding regular football as he attempts to revive a career that has stalled considerably since leaving Manchester City for Chelsea in 2022.