Chelsea have opted not to trigger the £25 million permanent transfer clause in Jadon Sancho’s loan deal, a decision that will cost the club £5 million in penalty fees to Manchester United.
Sancho, who scored five goals in 42 appearances during a season-long loan at Stamford Bridge, will officially return to Old Trafford on June 30, after failing to reach an agreement with Chelsea over personal terms.
Despite playing a key role in Chelsea’s UEFA Conference League triumph, both sides were unable to reconcile his £250,000-a-week wage demands with the club’s incentive-based salary structure.
This marks a strategic financial decision by Chelsea, who are shifting focus to more sustainable targets.
According to reports, the Blues are pursuing right-footed left wingers, with Jamie Gittens and Alejandro Garnacho emerging as primary targets.
Nico Williams remains under consideration but is viewed as financially challenging.
Sancho’s departure also means he will miss Chelsea’s FIFA Club World Cup campaign in the U.S., despite being eligible.
Meanwhile, West Ham have entered the race, with manager Graham Potter exploring options for a rebuild at the London Stadium.
A swap deal involving Mohammed Kudus has been floated, potentially sending the Ghanaian attacker to United.
