Manchester United stand to receive a £5 million compensation fee if Chelsea decide against making Jadon Sancho’s loan move permanent this summer, according to talkSPORT.
Sancho, who struggled for form at Old Trafford, was given a fresh start at Stamford Bridge after Chelsea signed him on loan last summer. However, his struggles have persisted, raising doubts about his long-term future with the Blues.
Sancho’s Struggles Continue at Chelsea
Despite hopes that a change of scenery would reignite his career, Sancho’s form at Chelsea has been underwhelming. The 24-year-old winger has managed just two goals in 29 appearances across all competitions and has gone 18 matches without scoring.
His lack of impact has increased speculation that Chelsea might opt against triggering the obligation to buy clause in his loan deal, instead paying Manchester United the pre-agreed exit fee to send him back to Old Trafford.
Chelsea’s Summer Plans & Sancho’s Future
While Sancho’s performances have been inconsistent, reports suggest Chelsea still maintain a good relationship with the player. Their decision to target a new winger in the summer appears to be driven more by uncertainty over Mykhailo Mudryk’s availability rather than outright dissatisfaction with Sancho.
Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca, who previously worked with Sancho at Manchester City, expressed support for the winger’s efforts, particularly praising his form earlier this year.
“I knew Jadon already from his previous clubs, and I had expectations of him,” Maresca said. “In terms of consistency, he’s doing well. Apart from a short spell in November when he was unwell, he’s been performing at a good level. Now, he just needs to keep going.”
Jim Ratcliffe’s Verdict on Sancho & Man United’s Spending
Meanwhile, Manchester United co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe has made his stance on Sancho’s situation clear. During a recent discussion on the club’s financial situation, he name-dropped Sancho among five costly signings that have weighed heavily on United’s books.
Ratcliffe cited Rasmus Højlund, André Onana, Casemiro, Sancho, and Antony as players whose transfer fees will only be fully paid off this summer, despite being signed before his arrival.
“For Sancho, who now plays for Chelsea while we cover half his wages, we’re still set to pay £17 million to buy him this summer,” Ratcliffe revealed.
When asked whether these signings were worth the investment, Ratcliffe admitted:
“Some are not good enough, and some are probably overpaid. Reshaping the squad into one we are fully responsible for will take time. We’re in a period of transition, moving from past mistakes to building for the future.”
Sancho’s Career: From Dortmund Stardom to Old Trafford Struggles
Sancho’s initial move to Manchester United in 2021 came with high expectations, as the club shelled out £73 million to sign him from Borussia Dortmund. The winger had been one of Europe’s most exciting prospects during his time in the Bundesliga, where he thrived after leaving Manchester City as a teenager.
However, his spell at Old Trafford proved disappointing, managing just 12 goals in 83 appearances. After falling out of favor under Erik ten Hag, he was sent on loan to Chelsea, but his revival has yet to materialize.
What’s Next for Sancho?
With his future at Chelsea uncertain and Manchester United seemingly eager to move on, Sancho could find himself back at Old Trafford this summer, unless another club steps in to secure his services.
For now, Chelsea’s final decision on Sancho’s permanent transfer remains up in the air, but should they choose to send him back, United will at least receive a £5 million financial boost.
