United outcast finally gives definitive answer to Euro giants’ offer, ending prolonged transfer saga – Di Marzio

After weeks of relentless pursuit, AS Roma have finally received a definitive answer from Jadon Sancho regarding their proposed £20 million move.

The Italian giants have been pushing hard to sign the Manchester United winger, who is widely known to be surplus to requirements at Old Trafford.

Several top European clubs have shown interest, but complications have repeatedly stalled negotiations, whether due to Sancho’s wages or his personal preferences. It became clear he was not willing to join just any club.

While the complexities of the deal deterred most suitors, Roma remained undeterred. Encouraged by United’s willingness to do business, they persisted even when their efforts appeared fruitless.

Roma tried everything, including video calls between head coach Gian Piero Gasperini and Sancho, and even enlisting Leon Bailey to help convince him to make the switch to the Stadio Olimpico. Both attempts failed.

Eventually, Roma sporting director Frederic Massara flew to the UK on Monday for decisive talks with Sancho on Tuesday. These talks were seen as the final opportunity to secure clarity, with Sancho having never entirely rejected the Giallorossi’s advances.

Sancho makes Roma decision

According to Italian transfer expert Gianluca Di Marzio, the meeting took place, and the outcome was revealing.

“After the meeting in London between the Giallorossi sporting director, Frederic Massara, and the Englishman’s entourage, the definitive answer has arrived: the Manchester United winger seems not to have definitively accepted the offer of the Giallorossi club.

Roma move on

With Sancho’s rejection now clear, Roma have swiftly turned their attention to an alternative target. Di Marzio reports:

“Roma is, in fact, working for Tyrique George, Chelsea’s 2006-born striker. The player has already given an opening to the transfer to the Giallorossi, although several Bundesliga clubs are also ready to sign him.

“George does not want to leave Chelsea on loan. On this point, Roma is ready to make a substantial investment. In these hours, they are working with both the London club and the player to get the final ok.”

Frustration for INEOS, but other exit routes remain

For INEOS, who were keen to offload Sancho, this update is a source of frustration. However, contingency plans are already in motion.

According to a report relayed by The Peoples Person, Sancho has been offered to Tottenham Hotspur. Spurs are in the market for a winger and have been chasing Savinho from Manchester City, a move that is proving challenging. Sancho could present a viable alternative.

Besiktas have also been linked with the United number 25. While Sancho has reportedly shown little interest in a move to the Turkish Super Lig, that option may resurface if the window closes and he remains at United.

With Turkey’s transfer window not closing until 12 September, Football Insider notes:

“If United can find a Turkish club that wants to sign the out-of-favour winger, then they will have longer to agree a deal.”

What next for Sancho?

Roma may be out of the picture, but Sancho is still expected to leave one way or another. After a long summer of frustration, it remains to be seen who will finally capture the 25-year-old winger.

Featured image Richard Heathcote via Getty Images

Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social