Chelsea would face a substantial financial penalty if they decide to withdraw from their obligation to sign Jadon Sancho permanently this summer, according to a recent report.
When Sancho joined Chelsea on loan last summer, it was widely believed his time at Manchester United was over. The Blues agreed to an obligation to sign the winger for around £25 million at the end of the season, provided they finished higher than 14th in the Premier League.
However, recent reports suggest Chelsea have the option to buy their way out of the agreement and are considering doing so, having been unimpressed by Sancho’s performances this season.
After a promising start in London, Sancho has managed just two goals and six assists in 28 appearances for Chelsea. The 24-year-old admitted his form has been frustrating.
According to ESPN, Chelsea would need to pay a “large proportion” of the pre-agreed £25 million fee if they opt to back out of the deal. Meanwhile, Chelsea are already bolstering their attacking options, with Brazilian prodigy Estevao Willian set to join this summer and Sporting CP’s Geovany Quenda agreeing to a £44.7 million move in 2026.
Whether Chelsea will walk away from Sancho remains uncertain, but a potential return to Manchester United would pose another challenge for the Red Devils as they aim to reduce costs and streamline Ruben Amorim’s squad.
Amorim is expected to have the final say on Sancho’s future if he returns to Old Trafford. The Manchester Evening News reports that three options are being considered: reintegrating Sancho into the squad, pursuing another loan move, or seeking a permanent sale.
In the long term, a decision must be made regarding Sancho’s contract, which expires in 2026. As one of the squad’s highest earners, United could let his deal run down or trigger a 12-month extension to facilitate a permanent sale.
