Jadon Sancho’s future is once again in the spotlight as the season nears its conclusion. The English winger, currently on loan at Chelsea from Manchester United, has reportedly made a decisive choice regarding his next move. While Chelsea’s stance on keeping him permanently remains unclear, Sancho has instructed his representatives to explore a return to Borussia Dortmund, the club where he previously thrived and established himself as one of Europe’s top young talents.
Although Chelsea has a contractual obligation to sign Sancho at the end of the season, they can opt out by paying a £5 million penalty. If they decide against making the move permanent, he would return to Manchester United—where he is not in the club’s plans. This uncertainty leaves Sancho in a difficult position as he seeks clarity on his next step.
His performances for Chelsea have been underwhelming, with just two goals and four assists in 23 Premier League appearances. These struggles have cast doubt on whether Chelsea will justify the reported £25 million fee required to keep him. Given his inconsistent displays, the club may reconsider their long-term commitment to him.
Reports from Germany indicate that Sancho is keen on reuniting with Borussia Dortmund, regardless of what Chelsea or Manchester United decide. His previous stint with the Bundesliga side was the most successful phase of his career, and a return could offer him the stability and confidence he needs to regain top form. However, Dortmund’s financial limitations could be a major obstacle. With an underwhelming domestic season and the possibility of missing out on Champions League qualification, the club’s transfer budget may not allow them to afford him without selling key assets.
One way Dortmund could raise funds is by offloading Jamie Bynoe-Gittens, their highly-rated young winger. The 20-year-old, valued at around £80 million, has drawn interest from Premier League sides such as Chelsea, Liverpool, Manchester United, and Tottenham. If he is sold, Dortmund could use the proceeds to bring Sancho back to the club.
Manchester United, meanwhile, are still dealing with the financial burden of Sancho’s £73 million transfer from Dortmund in 2021. Co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe recently acknowledged that the club is still making payments on the deal, adding to their frustration over his disappointing spell at Old Trafford. With no plans to reintegrate him, United are eager to facilitate a permanent exit.
A return to the Bundesliga seems like Sancho’s best option. While Dortmund is his priority, Bayer Leverkusen has also emerged as a potential destination. The German club, managed by Xabi Alonso, is on the rise and could present an appealing alternative if Dortmund cannot afford him. A move to Leverkusen would allow Sancho to remain in a familiar league while offering him a fresh challenge in a competitive squad.
Chelsea’s decision on Sancho will likely depend on his performances in the final stretch of the season. If he manages to impress and help them secure European qualification, the club could reconsider keeping him. However, if his struggles persist, they may trigger the £5 million clause to send him back to Manchester United, who would then seek the best financial deal to offload him permanently.
Dortmund’s ability to structure a deal will be crucial in determining whether a transfer materializes. The club has a track record of bringing back former players, having re-signed the likes of Mats Hummels and Mario Götze in the past. If they can negotiate favorable terms, Sancho could follow a similar path back to Germany.
Sancho himself is eager to revive his career after a difficult few years in England. At Dortmund, he flourished as one of the most exciting young attackers in Europe, regularly contributing with goals and assists. A return to familiar surroundings might offer him the ideal platform to rediscover his form.
While Dortmund remains his top choice, the growing interest from Bayer Leverkusen adds another dimension to his transfer saga. With Leverkusen emerging as a force in German football, they could become serious contenders if Dortmund cannot afford the deal. As the season progresses, Sancho’s future will depend on Chelsea’s decision, Manchester United’s willingness to negotiate, and Dortmund’s financial situation—all while Leverkusen watches closely. No matter where he lands, his next move will be crucial in determining whether he can return to the level that once made him one of Europe’s brightest young stars.
