Jadon Sancho is set to return to Manchester United after Chelsea failed to agree personal terms with the winger over a permanent move, according to multiple reports.
The 25-year-old winger, who joined Chelsea on loan last summer, will now head back to Old Trafford despite a successful season in west London, as the Blues opted not to activate their £25 million obligation-to-buy clause.
Chelsea will instead pay a £5 million ($6.7m) penalty to terminate the loan agreement prematurely.
Salary Dispute Derails Permanent Move
Negotiations collapsed after Chelsea asked Sancho to accept a significant pay cut from his £300,000-a-week salary to conform to the club’s wage structure.
Talks broke down after no agreement could be reached with the player’s representatives.
Chelsea did not pay a loan fee for Sancho but covered half his weekly wages during the loan spell.
Sancho’s loan deal contained a purchase obligation, triggered if Chelsea finished above 14th in the Premier League — a condition they met.
However, due to the failed contract negotiations, the club chose to pay the escape clause instead.
A Mixed But Productive Season in Blue
Despite the off-field uncertainty, Sancho delivered a solid campaign for Chelsea, contributing:
5 goals and 10 assists in 42 appearances across all competitions.
A key goal in the 4-1 UEFA Conference League final win over Real Betis, securing the club’s first trophy under Todd Boehly and Clearlake Capital’s ownership.
United Open to Permanent Sale
Sancho, who joined Manchester United from Borussia Dortmund in 2021 for £73 million, is no longer part of United’s long-term plans, especially after his falling-out with former manager Erik ten Hag.
United still owe Dortmund around £17 million from the original deal and are willing to let Sancho leave permanently this summer.
Future Uncertain as Club World Cup Looms
Although Sancho is contracted to Chelsea until June 30, he is unlikely to feature in the club’s Club World Cup campaign in the United States.
Chelsea depart London next week and open their tournament against LAFC in Atlanta on June 16.
European Interest Renewed
With his Stamford Bridge stint drawing to a close, Sancho is now expected to assess his options, with several European clubs previously showing interest in the winger.
Whether a return to the Bundesliga or another top-five league materializes remains to be seen.
Sancho now faces a crossroads in his career once again; still under contract at United, yet unwanted and in search of a club ready to match both his ambition and his pay packet.
Meanwhile, the Conference League champions have announced the signing of striker Liam Delap from Ipswich.
Delap was unveiled on Wednesday and is expected to travel with the team for their FIFA Club World Cup campaign this month.
The 22 year-old moved for £30m and penned a 6-year deal.
Last season, the forward registered 14 goals contribution (12g, 2a) in 37 premier league matches for the relegated Tractor boys.
Delap is the second signing announced by Chelsea in the off season following the acquisition of Dario Essugo from Sporting CP.
