Jadon Sancho Eyes Borussia Dortmund Return as Manchester United Plot Exit Barrier
Aston Villa winger Jadon Sancho has reportedly expressed a strong desire to return to Borussia Dortmund this summer, but Manchester United could thwart a free-transfer move by triggering a contract extension, according to German outlet Bild.
The 26-year-old, currently on loan at Villa from United, is keen on a switch back to the club where he made his name. Dortmund's sporting director, Lars Ricken, is said to be aware of Sancho's wishes. However, speculation is mounting that United may activate an option to extend Sancho's contract, ensuring they receive a transfer fee rather than losing him for nothing when his deal expires.
Dortmund's Uncertainty Over Sancho's Form
Dortmund are reportedly unsure whether Sancho can rediscover the scintillating form that made him one of Europe's most sought-after wingers during his first spell at the club. His stock has fallen considerably since his £73 million move to United in 2021, and a subsequent loan at Chelsea did little to revive his fortunes.
It was hoped that a move to Villa would provide a platform for Sancho to re-establish himself, but he has struggled to cement a place in Unai Emery's starting XI, making just nine Premier League starts this season. He did not start Villa's Europa League final victory over Freiburg on Wednesday night, though he came on as a substitute for the final nine minutes as Villa secured their first major trophy in 30 years.
Villa's Stance on Permanent Moves
A permanent move to Villa appears unlikely at this stage, although Emery has not ruled out the possibility. When asked about Sancho and Douglas Luiz, who is on loan from Juventus, Emery said: "Not yet. Now we are finishing the season. We will reflect and analyse each situation. We will decide it, but not yet."
Emery added: "I am so, so proud of every player and how they have responded. Now is the moment after Sunday to take decisions how we will continue building and getting our development strongly. We are ambitious and everything we did is important to how we can analyse how to get better next year. I only want to improve and get better next year. The decisions we take will be in this direction."
Interest from Turkey
Clubs in Turkey are also showing interest in Sancho, with Fenerbahce, Besiktas, and Galatasaray reportedly keen. Reports claim that Sancho has already held exploratory talks in Istanbul.
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