Jadon Sancho (25, Chelsea) could possibly wear the Manchester United uniform again.
The Athletic reported on the 24th (Korea time) that "If Chelsea pays Manchester United £5 million (approximately 9.4 billion won), it can cancel the transfer of Jadon Sancho."
Sancho was loaned to Chelsea ahead of last season, and the contract included a condition that he must be fully transferred to Chelsea for £25 million (approximately 47.2 billion won) if the team finishes the Premier League above 14th place.
While it was virtually a contract close to an "obligation to transfer" clause, it has been reported that a separate clause exists allowing the contract to be withdrawn if the specified amount is paid to Manchester United.
Chelsea is currently actively considering utilizing this clause. After already acquiring Giovanni Kean from the prestigious Portuguese club Sporting CP, the scenario of minimizing losses by not fully acquiring Sancho and paying a certain amount is gaining weight amid ongoing reinforcement of side resources.
Sancho recorded consecutive assists in his first three matches at Stamford Bridge, raising expectations, but later fell short of expectations with only 2 goals and 1 assist in 20 Premier League matches.
Within Chelsea, there is disappointment regarding his inconsistent performances, and there is a significant possibility that he may have fewer chances to play given the current squad composition.
Chelsea already has side resources like Cole Palmer, Noni Madueke, and Pedro Neto, and if Mudrik returns without sanctions along with Kean's arrival, competition for the wings will become even more intense. This uncertainty is increasing regarding Sancho's future.
Enzo Maresca, the head coach, noted in a January interview that "Sancho is performing consistently well, beyond my expectations," but considering the team's direction and long-term squad operation, the likelihood of not fully acquiring Sancho is increasing.
Meanwhile, there is a mood at Manchester United, Sancho's original team, that does not welcome his return. Ahead of the new season, under the leadership of head coach Ruben Amorim, the squad is undergoing a restructuring, and Sancho is excluded from the club's plans. It seems Sancho still has feelings for Manchester United, as he expressed his discontent with the past by commenting "Freedom" on the social media of Rashford, who was loaned to Aston Villa.
If Chelsea pays the penalty to terminate the contract, Sancho will have to face another situation of finding a new team. His future in this summer's transfer market is expected to become another major issue.
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