Latest developments
- Jadon Sancho is looking to complete a return to Borussia Dortmund.
- Chelsea have an obligation to buy from Manchester United following his loan spell.
- However, the Blues can pay a fee to avoid a permanent transfer.
Whisper+ analysis
Authenticity (3.5/5): Sancho wants Dortmund return
Sancho is believed to be eyeing a return to Dortmund, as Chelsea weigh up whether to follow through with their obligation to buy or pay a £5m to send him back to Man United.
According to German outlet Bild, Sancho has informed his representatives of his desire to return to Signal Iduna Park.
Value (2/5): Wages could be an issue
The report indicates that Sancho could reduce his wage demands to make a Dortmund return come to fruition. However, Dortmund may still struggle to pull off the move from a financial standpoint, especially if they fail to secure Champions League football.
There is also some uncertainty surrounding Sancho's transfer because it is unclear who Dortmund would negotiate with if they were to pursue a deal. Chelsea could potentially buy Sancho before quickly selling him, or they may pay the penalty in his loan agreement, which would make him a Man United player once again.
Suitability (4/5): Perfect match
Sancho is struggling to produce his best form at Chelsea, similar to his struggles at Old Trafford. However, he seems to thrive when playing for Dortmund, having showcased his quality with 53 goals and 64 assists in 158 appearances across two spells with the German club.
Upgrade? (3/5): Competition for places
The Man United loanee is said to be in regular contact with Jamie Gittens, who could be one of the players he may have to compete with if he were to return to Dortmund. With that said, Gittens is likely to attract significant transfer interest in the summer window.
Niko Kovac's wide options also include Karim Adeyemi, Gio Reyna, Julien Duranville and Max Beier.
Logic (3.5/5): Viable escape route
Sancho is finding it difficult to live up to his potential in the Premier League. While he will still be keen to prove himself in the top flight, Dortmund could offer him the chance to rediscover his best form and even put himself in contention for the England squad if he can make himself a key player at Signal Iduna Park.
Whisper+ verdict: 16/25
This move could be viable if Chelsea decides that Sancho does not have a long-term future at Stamford Bridge. However, there are major concerns about whether Dortmund can afford to sign the winger, which may ultimately depend on whether they can qualify for next season's Champions League.
