‘Not expected to stay’ – Fabrizio Romano claims Man United star is on his way out

Jadon Sancho’s journey at Manchester United is edging closer to its final chapter, according to respected journalist Fabrizio Romano. The English winger, once hailed as a future superstar upon his £73 million arrival from Borussia Dortmund in 2021, is now firmly on the club’s list of potential outgoings this summer.

Sancho spent the 2024–25 season on loan at Chelsea, where his performances were a mixed bag. While there were occasional flashes of his undoubted quality—particularly during Chelsea’s successful UEFA Conference League campaign—his stint at Stamford Bridge failed to produce the consistency both clubs had hoped for. The Blues have ultimately decided against triggering a permanent move.

A significant stumbling block in negotiations was Sancho’s wage demands. Despite months of discussions, Chelsea and the player’s representatives could not agree on salary terms. Rather than forcing a compromise, Chelsea opted to return the winger to Manchester United, even paying a financial penalty for the early termination of the loan arrangement.

Fabrizio Romano, via his official X (formerly Twitter) account, provided clarity on the situation, stating: “Jadon Sancho, not expected to stay at Manchester United this summer. He’s included in list of players available for sale to generate funds and reinvest on different signings. Sancho’s camp will assess options in the upcoming days/weeks.”

Manchester United, now undergoing a structural and strategic overhaul under the leadership of Sir Jim Ratcliffe and the INEOS group, are poised for major changes this summer. After a disastrous 2024–25 season in which the Red Devils finished a shocking 15th in the Premier League and lost the Europa League final to Tottenham Hotspur, the club’s hierarchy is determined to make bold moves to reverse their fortunes.

Among the most urgent priorities is trimming down a bloated wage bill and offloading underperforming players. Sancho, unfortunately, has become symbolic of the club’s misfiring recruitment policy over the past few years. With a hefty salary and minimal impact on the pitch, he has been earmarked as expendable.

Despite his decline in market value, Sancho remains a player with considerable pedigree. At 25, he still has time to rediscover the form that made him one of Europe’s most exciting young wingers during his time in the Bundesliga. Several clubs across Europe—particularly in Serie A and the Bundesliga—are rumored to be monitoring the situation closely.

His representatives are now expected to explore all available options, ranging from permanent transfers to another potential loan. However, Manchester United’s preference is a full sale to recoup some of the investment and reinvest in key areas, particularly the midfield and attacking third.

Sancho’s departure will also clear the path for new attacking additions. Brentford’s Bryan Mbeumo is among the players linked with a move to Old Trafford, and his potential arrival could further accelerate Sancho’s exit. United are targeting hungry, in-form players who can immediately uplift the squad.

Adding further intrigue, United captain Bruno Fernandes was recently approached by Saudi Arabian side Al Hilal. While the Portuguese midfielder has decided to remain at Old Trafford, his situation underscores the wider uncertainty and transition within the team.

As United gear up for a crucial summer transfer window, Sancho is not the only player under scrutiny. The club is reportedly preparing to let go of several high-profile names who have failed to live up to expectations. It’s a sign that the INEOS era means business.

Romano’s update reflects the growing inevitability of Sancho’s departure. While the Englishman may return to Carrington for pre-season assessments, insiders suggest it’s a formality before a move is finalized.

The saga of Jadon Sancho at Manchester United will likely be remembered as a cautionary tale—an expensive gamble that didn’t pay off. From a fan-favorite at Dortmund to a peripheral figure in England, his time in Manchester has been marred by inconsistency, off-field issues, and managerial fallouts.

With Sancho expected to leave, the question becomes: where next? Will a return to Germany reignite his career? Could a move to Italy offer him the tactical reset he needs? Or will an ambitious Premier League side take a chance on him despite the risks?

For now, one thing is clear: Sancho’s time at Manchester United is nearing its conclusion. And as the transfer window progresses, more developments are expected in what could be one of the club’s biggest exits this summer.

Stay tuned as United continue their squad reshaping mission—with Jadon Sancho likely to be one of the first names out the door.