Jadon Sancho’s move to Chelsea has reportedly been set in motion, with Manchester United now waiting for the final decision from Enzo Maresca.
Manchester United may be edging closer to finally resolving the long-running saga surrounding Jadon Sancho, as recent developments point toward a potential permanent move away from Old Trafford. The 24-year-old winger, who switched to Chelsea on loan late in the summer transfer window in search of regular first-team action, could now be staying at Stamford Bridge beyond this season.
According to reports from The Athletic, Sancho’s loan deal contains a £25 million obligation-to-buy clause, which was contingent upon Chelsea finishing 14th or higher in the Premier League. Following their 2-1 victory over Fulham, that condition has now been met, with Enzo Maresca’s side safely inside the top 12. However, Chelsea still have the option to withdraw from the permanent deal by paying a £5 million release fee, giving them some room to reconsider depending on how the winger performs in the closing weeks of the campaign.
Sancho made a bright start in West London, recording assists in his first three matches and quickly earning praise from Maresca for his creativity and renewed confidence. He played a pivotal role during Chelsea’s five-game winning run, finding the net against both Southampton and Tottenham. But as Chelsea’s form dipped, so too did his influence, culminating in a prolonged 16-game goalless stretch before he finally broke his drought with a crucial strike against Ipswich Town — a goal that reignited Chelsea’s Champions League hopes.
The Blues are currently in sixth place, firmly in the race for European qualification, while Sancho’s parent club Manchester United sit in a disappointing 14th. United’s co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe has been vocal about the club’s poor transfer decisions in recent years, openly questioning the wisdom of expensive signings like Sancho. The winger’s uncertain future aligns with the broader plan to reshape the squad, with reports suggesting new manager Ruben Amorim has little interest in reintegrating Sancho into his system.
For United, a permanent sale would not only clear a high-profile name from the wage bill but also generate funds that could be reinvested into priority targets such as Matheus Cunha or Victor Osimhen. However, if Chelsea decide to pull out, United may be left scrambling to find a new buyer, with clubs like Juventus having previously expressed interest. A lack of takers could see the club reluctantly consider another loan move, likely with subsidised wages, or worse, face the challenge of reabsorbing a player into the dressing room who had a strained exit.
The coming weeks will be decisive. Whether Chelsea commit fully or back out at the eleventh hour, the outcome could mark a pivotal chapter in Sancho’s turbulent time with Manchester United — and potentially offer a fresh start for both player and club.
