Manchester United look likely to be dealt a double blow by Chelsea with the Blues not only snatching away Liam Delap at the last second, but they could be about to send Jadon Sancho back to Old Trafford.
The United loanee emerged from the bench to score the Blues’ third goal on the night as they secured the UEFA Conference League title on Wednesday against Real Betis.
Sky have reported that Chelsea would like the player to stay but must agree new wages so that he fits in with the wage structure at the club.
Even i Paper has suggested the London side might have a change of heart following their European success, with one source close to the player claiming “Chelsea may reconsider, with Maresca won over by some recent performances”.
But overall, it has been a disappointing season for the 25-year-old, who contributed five goals and 10 assists for Chelsea in all competitions. And he still has a lot of winning over to do.
While the above figures might not look too bad, the fact is the England international managed a solitary goal and one assist in the Premier League in 2025.
Chelsea to opt against Jadon Sancho deal
And Enzo Maresca has doubts about his consistency levels as per The Guardian, which is why the Stamford Bridge side are monitoring the likes of Borussia Dortmund’s Jamie Bynoe-Gittens and Athletic Club’s Nico Williams.
Chelsea are obligated to buy Jadon Sancho for £25 million, after having secure Champions League football for next season, and any change in the agreement will cost them a penalty of £5 million.
“Chelsea are seeking to add a right-footed left-winger to their squad. There are indications they will opt against taking up their £25m option to turn Jadon Sancho’s loan from Manchester United into a permanent deal.
“Chelsea will have to pay a £5m penalty clause if Sancho, who came off the bench to score against Betis, is sent back to Old Trafford. Maresca likes the former Borussia Dortmund winger but must consider whether the 25-year-old has been consistent enough.
Jadon Sancho to return to United
“Chelsea have tracked Dortmund’s Jamie Bynoe-Gittens and are monitoring developments around Athletic Bilbao’s Nico Williams. It is felt that Williams, who is wanted by Arsenal and Real Madrid, could be too expensive. Madrid could move for the winger if they sell Rodrygo, who has interest from City.”
If Chelsea do opt out, it will be a huge blow for the Englishman, who could be rejected by two English clubs all in the same season.
United have no interest in keeping the winger at the club and INEOS might now need to sell him for an even lower fee, another damaging blow to the club’s finances.
It is clear that the Premier League’s pace and physicality does not suit the former Manchester City academy graduate. Maybe, Borussia Dortmund can come to the rescue again.
Feature image Julian Finney via Getty Images
Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social
Ayantan Chowdhury
Ayantan has worked for 10 years in the Indian sports media industry, writing for the biggest newspapers and websites but his heart was always set on writing about his favourite club. Currently an editor at The Peoples Person. You can follow him on X: @ayantanc_25
