Evaluating Jadon Sancho’s Potential Destinations

When it come s to the best young attacking talents in the world, there is no question that Jadon Sancho is right there up amongst them. Having moved to a foreign country in Germany at the age of 17 from the comforts of Manchester City and working under Pep Guardiola, it is clear that Sancho is not one who does things the easy way. He was ambitious and knew that, to further his progress – he had to move to a club where he would be given better opportunities and that is where Borussia Dortmund came in.

In the last 18 to 24 months, his rise has been meteoric and has established himself as not just one of the best players in Germany, but one of the most coveted young talents in the footballing world. And maybe, it has reached a point for both Sancho and Dortmund that a move next summer is what is best for both parties. Here, we look at some of Sancho’s potential destinations and why he might be better off at certain clubs than others. 

DREAM – REAL MADRID

According to David Ornstein, Real Madrid are one of the clubs interested in Sancho who might look to make a move next summer. No Englishman has played with distinction for Real Madrid apart from Michael Owen – to an extent. The appeal of Los Blancos might prove to be too hard to resist for Sancho, and understandably so. The prospect of becoming a Galactico in a Real Madrid side that are rebuilding towards another cycle of domination is an enticing prospect and one that is arguably impossible to reject.

The Dortmund number 7 might encounter complications, considering Real’s depth and prudent investment in wide areas of the pitch. They already have the likes of Eden Hazard, Vinicius Jr., Rodrygo, Isco and Marco Asensio who are capable of playing on the wings, assuming that the wantaway Welshman Gareth Bale has finally moved on. However, this move is pretty unlikely at this stage of his career, while considering that he is eyeing a starting place which Real simply cannot promise. It just might not be the right time to make the move. 

Likelihood rating – 3/10

REALISTIC – MANCHESTER UNITED

Manchester United are one of the few clubs that have consistently been linked with Sancho; with reports stating that United would have made a move in the preceding summer transfer window, had they secured Champions League football for the 2019/20 season. As things have transpired, United are in the Europa League and can be considered to be one of the very few clubs capable of luring Sancho. He will be part of a rebuild and will be looked on as one of the major pieces of the puzzle to take United back to being amongst the best in Europe. 

There is a clear role for Sancho if he does make the move to the Theatre of Dreams. For years, United have struggled to fill the right-wing spot and have not yet made a competent acquisition for said position. Daniel James has been impressive in parts but his game has not evolved enough to be as effective against deep blocks. Sancho could easily stake a claim for the spot – one which would give rise to a potentially fearsome front-three with Anthony Martial and Marcus Rashford. It will come down to whether United can convince Sancho. The presence of several of his English teammates might play a role as well. There is a decent chance of this move happening. 

Likelihood rating – 6/10

WILDCARD – PSG

So, what about the glitz of Paris? PSG have become one of the biggest clubs in Europe and there is no reason why they might not look to pursue the services of the English winger. With Kylian Mbappe likely to move to a more central role, and even the possibility of Neymar and/or Mbappe leaving, Sancho will likely be in PSG’s radar, should they aim to replace their various departures. Edinson Cavani is leaving at the end of the season with his contract expiring, and although Mauro Icardi has had a good start to life in Paris, it is not yet certain as to whether his move from Inter Milan will be made permanent. 

Even without any departures, Sancho could easily slot on the right; with Neymar and Mbappe playing on the left and centre respectively. Now, that would be some forward line. However, there is a possibility that Sancho might not fancy a move to Ligue 1 and would much rather move to England or Spain. PSG won’t be favorites for his signature as things stand, perhaps understandably so. The fact that there are just too many factors leaning against the move, makes it unlikely at the moment. 

Likelihood rating – 4/10

EADF EQUIPS – CHELSEA

Another English club that have been linked with a move for Sancho are Chelsea. Taking several factors into consideration, Chelsea might just be the best fit for Sancho. The club have made considerable progress under the tutelage of Frank Lampard, despite losing their best player in Eden Hazard and having to operate under the discomfort of a transfer ban. A number of their talented academy players including Tammy Abraham, Fikayo Tomori and Mason Mount have played major roles this season and have come along better than anyone could have expected. 

The likes of Pedro, Olivier Giroud are expected to leave soon. Willian, who is out of contract next summer could also push to leave. With his ex-Dortmund teammate Christian Pulisic doing well and his compatriot in Callum Hudson-Odoi also returning to the side following a serious Achilles injury, the opportunity to link up might be too good a prospect to turn down. Sancho will get opportunities to play off both, the left and right wings. Chelsea, however, are not in a desperate need of another winger and could focus on bringing another striker to complement Tammy Abraham, so it remains to be seen if this move does come to fruition. 

Likelihood rating – 6/10