Leeds United academy product Fabian Delph once described a player linked with the club as “one of the best in the world” in a glowing endorsement.
Although Daniel Farke insists his focus is entirely on steering his side away from relegation danger, his attention must be beginning to turn to the January transfer window.
Four points from recent home games against Chelsea and Liverpool mean Farke’s side are sitting more comfortably in the Premier League relegation fight.
However, Farke will be keen to strengthen his squad after Leeds missed out on a late deal for Harry Wilson in the summer window, leaving the German short on options in attack.
Raheem Sterling has emerged as a potential option for Leeds in recent weeks, having been frozen out at Chelsea. The England international was once highly praised by Fabian Delph, as he looks to revive his stuttering career.
Who do you want Leeds to sign in January? A striker surely has to be the priority!
Fabian Delph praised Leeds United-linked Raheem Sterling
Sterling was once considered one of the best players in the Premier League, as he played a crucial role in the Manchester City side that dominated the 2010s.
Former Leeds man Delph was his teammate at the Etihad during this period and was full of praise for the England international’s ability.
Speaking to the Yorkshire Post in 2019, Delph explained why Sterling was among the world’s best players, stating: “When we both signed, he was [20] and he looked like a little baby.
“When he came to City, he had three seasons under his belt, and he’s not that young in football terms – but he’s always had the mindset he will be one of the best players in the world.
“I believe he’s operating at about 80 per cent, so if he can push himself a little more – which he will because his mindset is very good – the sky’s the limit.
“I’m speaking from knowing Raheem since he was 19 and seeing his progression. Right now, he’s one of the best players in the world.”
- READ MORE: Ben Foster gives ‘scary’ Elland Road verdict as he opens up on facing Leeds United as a player
Raheem Sterling’s lack of Premier League game time is a concern
There is no doubt that Sterling is a player with a significant pedigree, having played at the top end of the Premier League for the majority of his career.
However, while he may have been one of the best players in the world when Delph made his comments in 2019, six years on, Sterling is a different player.
The former England international has not featured for Chelsea this season, and played just 496 Premier League minutes during his loan spell at Arsenal last season, according to FotMob.
Which player would you be happy for Leeds to sell in January to fund their transfer business? Let us know in the comments… 🤔💰
The likes of Joel Piroe and Willy Gnonto are struggling to force their way into Farke's plans.
Sterling’s last full 90 minutes came in March 2025, in a 7-1 Champions League win away against PSV Eindhoven. Enzo Maresca has made it clear he has no future at Chelsea in recent days.
Leeds need certainty in the January transfer window, not expensive gambles. Despite his pedigree, the risk associated with a move for Sterling is too great.
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