How Jadon Sancho could return to Man Utd next summer

Jadon Sancho could return to Manchester United next summer due to a strange clause in his Chelsea contract.

The former Red Devils winger made the switch to Stamford Bridge on deadline day after securing a last minute loan move to Chelsea. He was handed the number 19 shirt upon his arrival, becoming the club’s 12th signing of the summer window.

Sancho’s contract at Chelsea contains an obligation to buy after his initial season, forcing the Blues to purchase the player for around £20m – £25m next summer.

However, if Chelsea finish anywhere below the top 14 in the Premier League this season, they may be able to avoid cashing out for the England star.

According to Fabrizio Romano, Sancho’s obligation is only triggered if Chelsea finish ‘among the first 14’.

While it’s unlikely that the Blues, who finished in sixth position just behind Tottenham Hotspur last season, will crumble and drop below 14th, there is still potential for Sancho to return to Old Trafford if they have a terrible debut season under new head coach Enzo Maresca.

Chelsea have begun the 2024/25 campaign with a mixed bag of results, losing 2-0 to Manchester City before thrashing Wolverhampton Wanderers in a 6-2 victory. They’re set to host Crystal Palace on Sunday at Stamford Bridge ahead of the international break.

Meanwhile, United saw victory over Fulham on the opening weekend before losing 2-1 to Brighton & Hove Albion. They host rivals Liverpool on Sunday afternoon when Arne Slot travels to Old Trafford for the first time.

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