In a stunning turn of events, Chelsea are reportedly considering a last-minute move for Manchester United’s Jadon Sancho, with hopes of striking a deal that includes Raheem Sterling. The unexpected development comes after Sancho patched things up with Erik ten Hag earlier this summer, following a clash last year that saw the winger frozen out of the squad.
Despite featuring prominently in pre-season, Sancho has been conspicuously absent from United’s first two Premier League matches against Fulham and Brighton & Hove Albion. Ten Hag has stated that Sancho is fighting for his place in the team, but a permanent departure before the transfer deadline on Friday seems to be the most likely outcome.
Borussia Dortmund, where Sancho spent the latter half of the 2023-24 season on loan, is not a viable option for a return. Talks with Paris Saint-Germain have also hit a dead end, although Juventus is reportedly interested in making a last-minute move.
Meanwhile, The Telegraph reports that Chelsea could offer a lifeline to Sancho by exploring a late deal that would involve the inclusion of Sterling. Like Sancho, Sterling has also been sidelined by Enzo Maresca despite featuring in pre-season matches, and is eager to find a new club before the transfer window closes.
Although Manchester United are aware of Chelsea’s interest in Sancho, the Blues have not yet made a formal approach for the winger. United have placed a £40m valuation on Sancho, making a move to Juventus seem more likely. However, United may also consider a loan deal with an obligation to buy.
The possibility of a swap deal involving Sterling and Sancho raises questions about how it would benefit both clubs. While it would solve the issue of having exiled attackers on their books, whether Sancho would secure regular playing time at Chelsea remains to be seen. With Pedro Neto and Noni Madueke in fine form, competition for places is stiff.
On the other hand, Sterling’s potential move to United could provide a boost to Marcus Rashford and other young talents in the squad. However, players like Alejandro Garnacho and Amad Diallo have already proven themselves capable of starting regularly. Ultimately, both Chelsea and Manchester United must carefully consider the implications of any transfer deals in the final days of the window.
