Manchester United loanee Jadon Sancho has been lighting up Stamford Bridge with his performances for Chelsea, most recently in their thrilling 4-3 comeback victory over Tottenham. The winger, who joined the Blues on a temporary deal from United in August, has already netted twice and set up five more in just 10 appearances this season.
One of those goals was a crucial one in the Spurs game, where he helped spark a comeback from a 2-0 deficit with a stunning solo effort. Cutting inside onto his preferred right foot, Sancho curled a beautiful shot into the far corner to get Chelsea back in the game.
His confidence was evident as he took on and beat his marker before unleashing a powerful low drive from 25 yards out that kissed the post on its way into the net. This followed another goal in Chelsea's 5-1 demolition of Southampton earlier in the week, making it two in two games for the Englishman.
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With his form on the rise, there's been chatter about whether United might look to bring Sancho back to Old Trafford in January. He fell out of favor under Erik ten Hag at the start of the 2023/24 season, but now that Ruben Amorim has taken over, could there be a path back for him?
Regrettably for United, Chelsea are obliged to purchase Sancho if they secure a 14th or higher position in the Premier League, as per Manchester Evening News. Depending on Chelsea's final standing, United could bag between $26m-$32m (£20m-£25m)
Currently, Chelsea is sitting pretty at second place after 15 games, and Enzo Maresca's squad could be contenders for the title, not to mention securing a spot in the European leagues. With Chelsea leading Everton by 17 points in the 15th spot, it would require nothing short of a miracle for United to retain Sancho beyond this season.
Although it hasn't been officially confirmed that United lacks a recall clause in the loan contract, the presence of an obligation-to-buy clause makes it highly unlikely for Sancho to return to Old Trafford, even if it were possible. This implies that Sancho is now set for a permanent transfer to Stamford Bridge.
Since his move from United, Sancho has established himself as a first-choice starter for Chelsea in the Premier League, and he appreciates the warm welcome he received from everyone at the club. "From the very first day, [Chelsea] made me feel welcome," Sancho shared with Premier League Productions.
"I know I have a lot of people to prove wrong, and I'm just working hard every day in training. When I get my opportunity, I try to show what I can do. Today, I am happy that I scored and helped secure three points for the team. Again, I'm just taking it game by game, and hopefully, I can continue this form. I have to say thank you to the whole Chelsea team and the staff for believing in me and giving me the opportunity to play."