Here is why Manchester United is ready to cut ties with Jadon Sancho

November 5, 2025 Oliver Obel

Signed from Borussia Dortmund in 2021 for around £70 million, Sancho arrived with huge expectations after lighting up the Bundesliga.

But the move has never truly worked out. Despite flashes of brilliance, injuries, loss of form and managerial changes have all stalled his progress.

Now 25, Sancho has found himself on the fringes once again, this time on loan at Aston Villa, where he is yet to start a Premier League match under Unai Emery.

His struggles have left many wondering what’s next for a player once tipped to be one of England’s brightest attacking talents.

Former United winger Lee Sharpe told Sky Sports earlier this year that Sancho “still has the talent, but confidence and consistency have deserted him,” suggesting a move away could help him reset his career.

United face tough decision

Reports suggest United have no plans to trigger the option of extending Sancho’s contract by another year.

Instead, they are ready to let him leave on a free when his deal expires in 2026 — a move that would free up his £200,000-a-week wages and help balance the club’s finances.

While the club would ideally prefer to recoup some of their investment, few sides are likely to match his salary demands or pay a transfer fee after several underwhelming seasons.

A career at a crossroads

For Sancho, the situation marks a steep drop from his days as one of Europe’s most exciting young players.

His time in Germany earned him comparisons with the likes of Raheem Sterling and Marcus Rashford, but his confidence has faded since returning to the Premier League.

Finding a permanent home — whether in England or abroad — could be the key to reviving his career. A fresh start away from Old Trafford might finally allow him to rediscover the form that made him such a star at Dortmund.

What it means for United

Sancho’s expected departure is part of a broader shift at Manchester United as the club looks to streamline its squad and reduce its wage bill.

New leadership at Old Trafford has been vocal about making smarter recruitment choices, and parting ways with high earners who have struggled to make an impact fits that direction.

Sources: talkSPORT, BBC Sport, Sky Sports