Revealed: Jose Mourinho has spoken with Man Utd star about transfer, Arsenal have also asked

Jadon Sancho’s time at Manchester United appears to be approaching its final chapter, and now a number of top clubs across Europe — including Arsenal, Napoli, and Borussia Dortmund — have entered the picture, with a surprise front-runner in Fenerbahce offering a lucrative deal to lure the 25-year-old winger to Turkey.

Sancho’s fall from grace at Old Trafford has been well-documented. After arriving from Borussia Dortmund with a reputation as one of Europe’s most exciting young attacking talents, the English international has struggled to meet expectations in the Premier League. A loan spell at Chelsea last season did little to restore his status, despite flashes of his old self.

Now back at Manchester United, Sancho’s situation is once again uncertain. According to reports from CaughtOffside in collaboration with journalist Buchi Laba, Turkish giants Fenerbahce have tabled a lucrative contract that currently stands as Sancho’s best option. The offer includes high wages and the promise of being a key figure in Jose Mourinho’s new-look side.

Mourinho, who was recently appointed Fenerbahce manager, is believed to have personally spoken to Sancho in an effort to convince him to join the Istanbul club. The Portuguese tactician is known for attracting big names to his squads, and Sancho would be a marquee signing to spearhead the club’s ambitions both domestically and in European competition.

Sources close to the negotiations suggest that if Sancho gives the green light to Fenerbahce, the deal is unlikely to face any obstacles from Manchester United’s end. The Red Devils are reportedly open to selling the player outright and would welcome a clean break given the deteriorated relationship between Sancho and the club’s coaching staff.

But Fenerbahce are not the only ones in the mix. Napoli and Borussia Dortmund have both made formal approaches for Sancho as well, offering alternatives in more competitive leagues. Dortmund, in particular, might hold a sentimental edge, given that Sancho’s finest years came in Germany, where he was a fan favorite and developed into a full England international.

Arsenal, meanwhile, have registered their interest by making an enquiry. While there hasn’t yet been a follow-up, the Gunners are understood to be keeping tabs on attacking midfielders and wingers as they look to bolster their depth ahead of another grueling campaign under Mikel Arteta. Though Sancho is not a top priority, he remains on their radar.

Sancho’s brief return to Dortmund on loan in the second half of the 2023/24 season showcased glimpses of the player he once was. Comfortable on the ball, intelligent in tight spaces, and capable of unlocking defences, he reminded fans of his potential — even if his time in the Premier League continues to raise questions.

Chelsea’s decision not to pursue a permanent deal also leaves Sancho in limbo. While he showed some promise at Stamford Bridge, it wasn’t enough to convince the Blues to invest heavily in the winger’s services, especially given their already inflated squad.

With Mourinho’s Fenerbahce project promising regular football, a starring role, and a manager with experience in rehabilitating careers, Turkey could present a golden opportunity for Sancho to reignite his professional trajectory. Turkish football has become an increasingly attractive destination for players seeking fresh starts — as shown by Leroy Sané’s recent move to Galatasaray and Victor Osimhen’s loan to the same club.

The question now is whether Sancho views the Süper Lig as a suitable stage for redemption or if he would rather try to prove himself again in one of Europe’s big five leagues. Dortmund would certainly offer familiarity, while Napoli provides a new challenge in a tactically rich environment.

Mourinho’s pull should not be underestimated. The legendary coach has a track record of working with high-profile, underperforming players and getting the best out of them. From Didier Drogba to Eden Hazard, and even Paul Pogba, Mourinho has historically built strong bonds with attacking players, and his conversation with Sancho might just prove decisive.

There is also the issue of Sancho’s wages, which may price out some of his suitors. Fenerbahce, thanks to financial backing and a less restrictive salary structure, appear to be the only club currently willing to meet both Manchester United’s valuation and the player’s salary demands.

For United, the sale would be a financial loss on their original investment, but it might represent a necessary step in clearing the decks under new manager Ruben Amorim or whoever takes over long-term. Sancho has not been involved in preseason preparations and is not seen as part of the club’s future plans.

As for Arsenal, unless a major development occurs, it’s likely that their interest in Sancho will remain exploratory. They are more likely to prioritize other targets unless the deal becomes financially viable and Sancho’s wage demands drop considerably.

Ultimately, Sancho is at a career crossroads. Once considered the jewel of England’s next generation, he now faces a decision that could shape the next five years of his career. Does he stay in the high-pressure spotlight of European elite football, or does he take a bold leap into a new environment where he could rediscover his passion and form?

The coming days could prove crucial, especially as Mourinho begins assembling his squad with Fenerbahce eager to challenge both domestically and in the UEFA Europa League. If Sancho accepts the offer, he may find the clarity and leadership he’s been missing since leaving Dortmund.

One thing is certain — this summer will define Jadon Sancho’s future. Whether that future lies in Istanbul, Naples, Dortmund, or an unexpected twist in North London remains to be seen.