The London club could still have to pay a fee if they elect not to sign Sancho at the end of his loan from Manchester United
Jadon Sancho is on loan at Chelsea this season
Jadon Sancho is on loan at Chelsea this season (PA Wire)
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Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca has played coy over the future of Jadon Sancho with a decision looming as the winger nears the end of his loan from Manchester United.
Sancho enjoyed a productive start to the season after a one-year switch to the London club, though has faded of late with his goal and assist output falling with Chelsea’s form.
As part of the loan agreement, Chelsea were thought to be obligated to sign the 25-year-old permanently for a fee of around £25m at the end of this campaign.
However, it has been suggested that the club may look to get out of the deal, potentially by paying a portion of that figure to Manchester United with Sancho returning to Old Trafford in the summer.
Admitting that the England international’s performances must improve, Maresca offered limited insight into the plans for the player as he insisted his full focus was on the remainder of this season.
“All the players that are with us, I love all of them,” Maresca said. “But in this moment, it is the moment to finish well. It is not the moment to think about next season.
"I am completely focused on nine games, two months to go. I'm completely focused about that and then what happens in the summer, we'll see. All the ones that are here, I want them all to be happy to be here.
“To be honest, probably you have more news than me in terms of Jadon. For me, Jadon's situation doesn't change. It is exactly the same. For sure, in terms of numbers, he could do better, no doubt.
"But it is not just about Jadon. I think we have more players in the same situation. I don't need to give Jadon a message because I speak with Jadon every day. I had a conversation yesterday with him. He just has to give his best until the end and this is what we want from Jadon."
Sancho has scored twice and registered seven assists in 28 Premier League appearance so far in a Chelsea shirt.