Raheem Sterling has completed a surprise move to Eredivisie side Feyenoord, signing a contract until the end of the season.
The former Chelsea man was a free agent, having been released by the Blues last month.
Raheem Sterling playing for Chelsea
4
Sterling was released by Chelsea last month and has now found a new clubCredit: Getty
talkSPORT understands there were around 18 clubs that made enquiries before he decided to sign for Robin van Persie‘s side.
"As a free agent, I've had, for the first time in a long time, the opportunity to control the next step in my career," Sterling said.
"I wanted to take my time to speak with clubs and their Head Coaches to better understand the role they envisioned for me and ensure that I can add real value in this next chapter.
"Having spoken in great detail with Robin, I'm confident that Feyenoord is a place I can be happy and establish myself as a valued member of the team.
READ MORE ON TALKSPORT
"Playing abroad is a whole new challenge for me - and one I’m ready to embrace. Honestly, I’m just excited to get started."
Putting rivalries aside
The move to Feyenoord will see Sterling link up with a former Premier League rival with the 31-year-old on the books with Liverpool as Van Persie plied his trade for Manchester United.
United and Sterling in action for Man Utd and Liverpool, respectively
4
United and Sterling in action for Man Utd and Liverpool, respectively
Sterling will now work under Van Persie at Feyenoord
4
Sterling will now work under Van Persie at Feyenoord
The former Arsenal and United striker put rivalries to one side following Sterling's signing, however, and was incredibly complimentary for the former Blues man upon his arrival.
"Naturally it’s a fantastic feat that we’ve managed to convince a player of Raheem’s calibre to sign with us," Van Persie said.
"His football resume speaks for itself: he’s a player whose qualities can change the outcome of a game without a doubt, and I am convinced
he will turn out to be a valuable addition to the team as we work towards achieving our goals in the second half of this season."
A statement from the club added: "We welcome Raheem and the experience he brings on-and-off the pitch to Feyenoord. As a club, we are thrilled to be able to contribute to the legacy he has shaped in the game of football."
Sterling, who hasn't played since May 2024, will hope to play a key role for Feyenoord in the coming months.
The Dutch side currently sit second in the Eredivisie, though are a whopping 17 points off league leaders PSV.
Shaq attack
Sterling's arrival comes as Feyenoord striker Shaqueel van Persie, son of head coach Robin, suffered a serious right knee hyperextension injury during the Dutch side's 2-1 Europa League defeat to Real Betis last month.
Robin van Persie with his son
4
Van Persie junior was stretchered off against Real Betis last monthCredit: Getty
Scans have revealed that the teenager does not require surgery, and he may yet return to action before the end of the season.
Feyenoord will therefore hope Sterling can get up to speed as quickly as possible.
The Eredivisie side are next in action on Sunday when they welcome Go Ahead Eagles to De Kuip.
Van Persie is hoping to oversee an improvement on a run of just two wins from their last seven league outings.