Ornstein: Sancho now ‘likely’ to leave Old Trafford before Friday; Sterling swap deal a concrete option

The ever-reliable David Ornstein has corroborated the recent speculation regarding Jadon Sancho’s future at Manchester United.

As it stands, it’s ‘likely’ that the 24-year-old will complete a move away from Old Trafford before Friday’s transfer deadline, whether that be through a loan or permanent transfer.

United are in talks with both Juventus and Chelsea in hopes of striking up a deal, ideally one that would see their £40 million price tag met – a fee which, in itself, is a £33m loss on what they forked out for him in 2021.

Chelsea’s proposal, should they accelerate their interest, is poised to incorporate a player heading the other way. In this case, Raheem Sterling is the most likely candidate, having been exiled from all first-team action by head coach Enzo Maresca.

However, Sterling faces a battle of his own before entering negotiations with any other club, as he is working on settling a payoff if his £300,000 per week contract is terminated three years early.

Read more: Erik ten Hag ‘opposed’ one United transfer this summer – but INEOS pushed for deal anyway

Sancho keen to seal United exit by Friday

Sancho, who spent the second half of the 2023/2024 term on loan with Borussia Dortmund, has been omitted from United’s matchday squad for their opening two fixtures.

Prior to the side’s opening day win over Fulham, Sancho was heard ‘reaffirming his desire to leave’. He was then spotted with his teammates at the Amex last Saturday but was absent from the teamsheet.

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