As per The Athletic, Chelsea are emerging as a potential destination for Jadon Sancho in the upcoming January transfer window.
The Athletic have reported that Sancho’s London roots could play a crucial role in this, making a switch to Stamford Bridge a viable option. Having grown up in the capital, the English international might see a move to the Blues as an attractive proposition.
Sancho’s situation at Old Trafford has been precarious since August, with manager Erik ten Hag deciding to sideline him due to what he perceived as subpar training performances. The 23-year-old retaliated, accusing ten Hag of unfairly making him a scapegoat, a statement he posted on X (formerly Twitter) before subsequently deleting it. His failure to issue an apology, however, speaks volumes, and many interpret it as a sign of his impending departure.
Despite their rich array of attacking talents, Chelsea could offer Sancho a chance to rejuvenate his career, especially under the guidance of Mauricio Pochettino. The former Borussia Dortmund star’s time at Manchester United has been far from ideal since his 2021 move, with a meager return of 12 goals and six assists in 82 competitive appearances.
Transfermarkt currently estimates Sancho’s value at €32 million, marking a significant dip in market value, the second-largest of the year. Pochettino is no stranger to Sancho’s abilities, having encountered him while he was at Tottenham Hotspur and Sancho played for Dortmund. Reflecting on those encounters, Pochettino had high praise for the young winger, acknowledging his potential and talent even back then.
Pochettino’s track record of nurturing young talent could bode well for Sancho, as seen with Mykhailo Mudryk. Mudryk had a rocky start at Chelsea but has since found his footing under Pochettino’s tutelage, scoring twice in nine appearances this season.
Adding to the mix, Juventus is also reportedly interested in acquiring Sancho’s services, ensuring a competitive landscape for his signature. Sancho’s earlier departure from Manchester City to Dortmund, in pursuit of more playing time, had paid off, as he flourished at Signal Iduna Park with 50 goals and 64 assists in 137 matches. Pochettino observed:
“He doesn’t surprise me. We knew very well that he was capable of doing what he’s doing now, with game time.”
His inability to replicate this form at Manchester United has raised questions, but a move under Pochettino could just be the catalyst he needs to get back on track.
