Speculation surrounds the future of Jadon Sancho, with a potential loan move to Saudi Arabia’s Al-Ettifaq under discussion.
As per James Benge, CBS Sports correspondent, Steven Gerrard’s Al-Ettifaq is reportedly preparing a late bid to secure the English winger on loan, and while they may consider a buy option, the limited time available might restrict them from pursuing a standard loan. As of now, Sancho’s stance on this interest remains undisclosed.
This opportunity emerged in the aftermath of Manchester United’s defeat against Arsenal, which led to Jadon Sancho’s social media post claiming that he was being made a ‘scapegoat’ following Erik ten Hag’s decision to exclude him based on training performance.
🚨 BREAKING: Al-Ettifaq are set to launch an 11th hour bid to sign Jadon Sancho on loan. [@jamesbenge] #mufc pic.twitter.com/8C7Nb0LiOr
— The United Stand (@UnitedStandMUFC) September 7, 2023
Since the online post, online discussions have been divided. Some support Jadon Sancho, highlighting similar treatment meted out by Erik ten Hag to other players. Conversely, others commend the high standards set by the Dutch manager and stand firmly in his support.
Earlier reports suggest that Manchester United appears to be siding with their manager in this controversy. Renowned figures like Rio Ferdinand have also shared their perspectives, with Ferdinand even forecasting a potential move for Jadon Sancho to Saudi Arabia.
Jadon Sancho’s challenges have been evident since his high-profile transfer from Borussia Dortmund to Manchester United in 2021, commanding a significant transfer fee of $92 million.
Despite an impressive track record of 50 goals and 64 assists in 134 matches for the German side, he has struggled to live up to the lofty expectations, tallying only 12 goals and six assists in 82 games during his tenure at Manchester United.
Notably, these issues appear to transcend managerial changes, as they persisted under the previous manager, Ole Gunnar Solskjær.
Jadon Sancho’s contract at Manchester United
With the transfer deadline for the Saudi Pro League set for September 7, all involved parties must expedite the process to facilitate this prospective transfer.
Jadon Sancho’s current wages at Manchester United amount to approximately $311,000 per week, equating to an annual income of $16 million.
Having inked a five-year contract with the club in 2021, Sancho still has three years remaining on his deal. The distribution of his wages between the clubs for this loan move remains unclear at this juncture.
Some #mufc staff members find Jadon Sancho to be rude and withdrawn, while others ascribe his demeanour to simply being shy.
At one preseason broadcasters day, when players were asked to fist pump and kiss the badge, it was difficult to get Sancho to even crack a smile.… pic.twitter.com/HKmUtBTMhz
— utdreport (@utdreport) September 7, 2023
Should Al-Ettifaq aim to secure the English winger’s permanent transfer in the upcoming season following the loan arrangement, Manchester United is likely to demand a substantial fee. Given that Sancho has three years remaining on his contract, the club will seek to recoup a significant portion of the transfer fee invested in him back in 2021.
During the summer, Al-Ettifaq made notable acquisitions from European leagues, including Jordan Henderson, Georginio Wijnaldum, Demarai Gray, and Moussa Dembélé. Nevertheless, the potential addition of Jadon Sancho would undoubtedly represent the marquee signing of the season for the club.