Juventus is reportedly in negotiations with Manchester United over a potential move for out-of-favor winger Jadon Sancho, with the transfer window quickly approaching its close.
Sancho, who found himself back in the United squad during pre-season after a well-publicized rift with manager Erik ten Hag last year, seemed to be making strides toward reintegration. He participated in the summer tour and even took a penalty in the Community Shield shootout. However, the 24-year-old’s omission from the matchday squad for United’s Premier League opener against Fulham last Friday has raised eyebrows.
Ten Hag appears to favor other options on the wings, such as Amad Diallo on the right and Marcus Rashford on the left, with Alejandro Garnacho also posing a significant challenge to Sancho’s playing time. Despite the apparent reconciliation between Sancho and Ten Hag, the club has maintained that the player remains available for transfer.
According to The Athletic, Juventus has “stepped up” their interest as the summer deadline looms, emerging as the “likeliest destination” for Sancho if he is to depart Old Trafford. However, finding a “financial agreement that satisfies all parties” may prove to be a significant hurdle.
United is reportedly holding out for a £40m fee for Sancho, a price that has deterred potential suitors throughout the summer. Juventus, under new management after Massimiliano Allegri’s previous reluctance to sign the player in January, is expected to propose a loan deal that would see them contribute to his wages instead of an outright purchase.
Sancho’s situation remains complex. Although he’s back with the squad, he’s far from being in Ten Hag’s good graces. According to reports from i, United may be more open to a sale now than earlier, having initially been interested only in a permanent transfer.
Juventus’s ability to secure Sancho could also depend on their success in pursuing other targets, such as Nico Gonzalez from Fiorentina and Teun Koopmeiners from Atalanta. The combined cost of these players could reach €90m (£76m) if their asking prices are met, potentially complicating a deal for Sancho.
Adding to the financial strain, Juventus is also under pressure to offload Federico Chiesa, who has attracted interest from the Premier League. However, with no significant progress in those talks, Barcelona, AC Milan, and Inter Milan remain the most likely destinations for the Euro 2020 winner.
