Chelsea could be forced to pay Manchester United £5 million even if they decide not to sign Jadon Sancho permanently this summer, raising fresh doubts about the winger’s long-term future at Stamford Bridge.
Sancho arrived at Chelsea on a season-long loan last summer with an obligation to buy for £25 million. However, a clause in the deal—revealed by The Athletic—stipulates that if Chelsea opt against making the transfer permanent, they must still compensate United with a £5 million fee.
The England international initially impressed, delivering an assist in each of his first three Premier League appearances for the Blues. But his form has deteriorated drastically, with just two goals and one assist in his last 20 league outings—far below expectations for a player once regarded as one of Europe’s brightest attacking talents.
Chelsea’s struggles this season have only amplified concerns about Sancho’s contribution. Mauricio Pochettino’s side currently sits mid-table, far from Champions League qualification, and the club is under immense pressure to make smart financial decisions ahead of the summer transfer window.
The £5 million clause now forces Chelsea into a tough decision—cut their losses and pay the fee or gamble on Sancho rediscovering his Borussia Dortmund form. With Chelsea’s attack already under scrutiny, the final weeks of the season could determine whether the club retains faith in the winger or sends him back to Old Trafford.
