Rio Ferdinand Slams Chelsea’s Transfer Business: Sterling Loan and Nine-Year Deal for Jackson
Rio Ferdinand has criticized Chelsea’s summer transfer activities, highlighting the club’s chaotic approach and questionable decisions.
Despite failing to secure key targets like Victor Osimhen or Ivan Toney, Chelsea still spent approximately £219.6 million on 12 new signings, including high-profile additions Pedro Neto (£54m) and Joao Felix (£46.3m).
This surge in spending has pushed Chelsea’s total expenditure to over £1.2 billion since Todd Boehly and his consortium took over from Roman Abramovich.
One of the standout moves was Raheem Sterling’s loan transfer to Arsenal. Sterling, who joined Chelsea for £47.5 million and earns £325,000 per week, was loaned to Arsenal after falling out of favor under manager Enzo Maresca.
Chelsea agreed to cover about £175,000 of Sterling’s weekly wages, leaving Arsenal to pay the remaining £150,000. Ferdinand has branded this situation as a “mad circus” and criticized Chelsea for mishandling Sterling’s departure. He lauded Arsenal’s acquisition of the experienced winger, suggesting it could significantly bolster their chances of winning the Premier League.
In response to missing out on Osimhen, Chelsea has committed to a new nine-year deal for striker Nicolas Jackson. Jackson, who has two goals in three games this season and scored 17 times in 44 appearances last term, will see his current contract extended despite criticisms of his inconsistency in front of goal.
Maresca confirmed the new deal is imminent, expressing satisfaction with Jackson’s performances.
Ferdinand’s comments reflect ongoing concerns about Chelsea’s transfer strategy and squad management, while also highlighting Arsenal’s shrewd maneuvering in securing Sterling for their title push.
Rio Ferdinand Slams Chelsea’s Transfer Business: Sterling Loan and Nine-Year Deal for Jackson
