Manchester United are closing in on a player swap that could see Jadon Sancho move to Juventus, with Douglas Luiz heading to Old Trafford in return. This potential deal marks another major step in manager Rúben Amorim’s sweeping summer overhaul following a disastrous season in which United slumped to 15th in the Premier League.
Talks between both clubs are said to be progressing quickly, just ahead of United’s pre-season resumption on July 7. Amorim, who took charge in late 2024, is fully supportive of the swap, aiming to bring fresh energy and purpose into a side that has lacked both.
Sancho, who arrived at United in 2021 from Borussia Dortmund for £73 million, has seen his career decline sharply. His strained relationship with Erik ten Hag and a disappointing loan spell at Chelsea—who paid £5 million without opting to sign him permanently—have placed his future in doubt. Amorim’s system doesn’t accommodate Sancho’s playing style, opening the door for a move to Juventus.
In exchange, United would acquire Luiz, who, despite a tough first season in Italy marked by injuries and poor form, remains highly regarded for his Premier League exploits. While he failed to register a single goal or assist in 27 appearances for Juventus, his previous season at Aston Villa—where he tallied 10 goals and 10 assists—demonstrated his attacking qualities from midfield.
With Christian Eriksen’s departure and Casemiro struggling to maintain form, United’s midfield is in desperate need of energy and creativity. Luiz could be the solution, offering Premier League know-how and the ability to support Bruno Fernandes. Amorim is also familiar with Manuel Ugarte’s game from their time at Sporting CP, and Luiz could be the missing piece to complement him.
The proposed swap helps United manage finances smartly. It eliminates Sancho’s hefty £250,000-a-week wages and avoids a large transfer outlay, with Juventus valuing Luiz at around €30 million. Instead of spending cash, the club can reinforce the squad by rebalancing assets.
Juventus had previously proposed different names like Dusan Vlahovic and Timothy Weah, but Amorim was firm in targeting Luiz. On the other side, Sancho is reportedly willing to take a pay cut to revive his career in Serie A and rediscover the kind of form he once displayed in the Bundesliga.
This deal reflects Amorim’s no-nonsense approach to reshaping the squad. Sancho, along with Antony, Rashford, and Garnacho, are all being evaluated as potential departures to make room for new signings. Amorim prioritizes players who match his tactical vision over reputations or past price tags.
If Luiz remains fit, he could bring much-needed drive, ball progression, and composure to a midfield that lacked all three last season. For Juventus, Sancho is a gamble—high risk, but with potential for high reward if he adjusts to the Italian game.
As United gear up for their pre-season tour across Asia and the United States, this move could prove pivotal in their attempt to recover from last season’s 18 league losses and Europa League final heartbreak. For Amorim, it’s not just about buying players—it’s about rebuilding Manchester United with precision and purpose.
