Is a permanent move to Chelsea for Sancho still on the cards? The certainty seems to have waned.

Why a permanent Chelsea move for Sancho is no longer a certainty Image source: Getty Images Image caption: Jadon Sancho has created 35 chances in 28 appearances for Chelsea in all competitions this season By Simon Stone, Chief football news reporter Nizaar Kinsella, BBC Sport football news reporter Published: 24 March 2025 453 Comments When Jadon Sancho's loan move to Chelsea from Manchester United was confirmed on 31 August, it appeared to be a perfect deal for all involved. United was eager to highlight that the loan included an 'obligation' for Chelsea to sign Sancho permanently - on the condition that they finished at least 14th in the Premier League this season. The fact that there was no loan fee paid and Chelsea was only covering half of Sancho's wages, as revealed by minority owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe in his interview with BBC Sport on 10 March, underlined United's eagerness to part ways with the England winger. Sancho, a £73m signing from Borussia Dortmund just over three years earlier, did not seem keen on returning to Old Trafford based on his social media post "wishing everyone all the best in the future." Chelsea was Sancho's childhood club. To the Kennington-born Sancho, who started at Watford, moved to Manchester City at 14, and then on to Germany where he became an England international, Chelsea felt like coming "home." For Blues boss Enzo Maresca, Sancho was another valuable attacking option in a squad being prepared for multiple competitions. Initial impressions of Sancho at Chelsea were promising. He provided a late winner on his Premier League debut at Bournemouth on 14 September and claimed assists in his next two matches. However, the conversation now revolves around a £5m compensation fee that Chelsea would have to pay to send him back, and the uncertainty of whether they will choose to pay it. Once again, Sancho, who turns 25 on Tuesday, finds himself facing an unclear future heading into the summer. Why has this happened again? Chelsea must pay £5m to back out of Sancho deal Published 4 days ago Will Chelsea stick or send back? Firstly, the word from Chelsea is that they still intend to keep Sancho. This is also the belief at United. However, if that outcome was so certain, why has information about the £5m 'return clause' been made public? It's not difficult to see why Chelsea might be tempted to trigger it, at the very least. Sancho's early performances were impressive, but his form has since dipped. He has not scored in 18 games and has managed just one assist. Despite his efforts off the ball, the lack of goal contributions has been noticeable. Since the Tottenham game, Chelsea has struggled in the league, accumulating just 18 points in 14 games. Thoughts are turning to how Maresca's squad can be improved as they battle for a Champions League spot. If Chelsea decides Sancho is not the right fit, United will face a dilemma. Sancho's issues at Old Trafford with former manager Erik ten Hag, along with contractual and performance concerns, complicate the situation. Chelsea may need to reevaluate their stance on Sancho, leaving United with a challenge to resolve. Manchester United, Chelsea, Premier League, Football (ball, united, chelsea, premier, league)