Transfer Centre

Jadon Sancho's Saudi Arabia move 'broke down due to Manchester United's demands'

By Matt Law, Football Editor | 08 September 2023

Sancho's Saudi move 'broke down due to Man United's demands'

Manchester United wanted to include a £50m obligation to buy in Al Ettifaq's deadline-day move for Jadon Sancho, according to a report.

Al Ettifaq reportedly attempted to sign Jadon Sancho from Manchester United on Thursday, but a move broke down due to the demands from the 20-time English champions.

The 23-year-old is facing an uncertain future at Old Trafford, having publicly gone against Red Devils head coach Erik ten Hag following the clash with Arsenal last weekend.

Ten Hag said that Sancho was not involved at the Emirates Stadium due to his under-par training-ground performances, and the player took to social media to hit back at the Dutchman.

There was a host of speculation surrounding the England international's future on Thursday, as Saudi Pro League outfits scrambled to make further signings before the end of their transfer window.

Manchester United forward Jadon Sancho on July 30, 2023 © Reuters

According to the Daily Mail, Man United were willing to let Sancho leave on loan, with Al Ettifaq in discussions with the Red Devils over a deal for the remainder of the season.

The report claims that Ten Hag's side were not looking for a loan fee but wanted an obligation to buy for £50m to be included in the agreement, which made a deal impossible.

Despite the immense wealth in the Saudi Pro League, Al Ettifaq, who are managed by Steven Gerrard, made it clear that they could not afford the demands.

The Turkish transfer window is still open, and Sancho is said to have plenty of admirers in the division, although it seems unlikely that he will make the move before next week's deadline.

Man United were believed to be willing to sell the former Manchester City over the summer for around £45m, but the club did not receive any concrete offers for his services.

Jadon Sancho celebrates scoring for Manchester United on February 8, 2023 © Reuters

Sancho reportedly does not have the support of his teammates in the dressing room, with many said to be 'fed up' with his 'general demeanour' around the training ground.

Bayern Munich are believed to be keeping a close eye on the situation with a view to potentially signing him during the January transfer window.

Sancho's long-term future at the club is unclear, but he is expected to meet with Ten Hag during the international break to discuss his situation.

If a resolution can be reached, the attacker, who has managed just 12 goals and six assists in 82 matches for the Red Devils since arriving from Borussia Dortmund in 2021, could be back in the squad for Man United's next game against Brighton & Hove Albion on September 16.