Juventus and Napoli Keen on Jadon Sancho as Transfer Drama Unfolds
For over a month, both Juventus and Napoli have been seriously pursuing Manchester United outcast Jadon Sancho.
At one point, the 25-year-old winger seemed poised to reunite with his former teammate Scott McTominay at Napoli under new boss Antonio Conte. However, Napoli eventually backed out due to Sancho’s high wage demands and the €28.9 million (US$33.7m) transfer fee.
That withdrawal opened the door for Juventus, who are now reportedly closing in on a deal for the England international.
Conceição Saga Could Disrupt Sancho Move
Despite reports from England suggesting Juve and United have reached a preliminary agreement, the situation may yet shift if Juve succeed in signing Francisco Conceição permanently.
Conceição, who impressed while on loan from FC Porto under Thiago Motta, fell out of favour after Igor Tudor took charge. His future at the club looked bleak in May, but a string of strong performances in Serie A and the FIFA Club World Cup reignited Juventus’ interest.
Now, the club is pushing to bring the 22-year-old back on a full-time deal — a move that could jeopardize the pursuit of Sancho.
Comolli’s Push and Ongoing Negotiations
Despite this potential complication, Juventus general manager Damien Comolli is reportedly determined to finalize a deal for Sancho. The move hinges on agreeing a reduced transfer fee and a significant wage cut for the player.
Sancho, who has been with United since 2021, hasn’t played for the club since the Community Shield in August. He spent last season on loan at Chelsea and seemed likely to make the move permanent.
Chelsea Exit and Collapsed Deal
Sancho even scored in the Conference League final against Real Betis, strengthening his case for a permanent transfer. But talks fell apart due to a failure to agree personal terms. Chelsea paid a €5.8 million (US$6.7m) penalty to back out of the deal and sent him back to Old Trafford.
Several clubs have shown interest in the winger, who is comfortable on either flank, but his high overall cost has put many off. Napoli are still watching the situation, but Juventus appear to be the only club seriously prepared to spend.
Juventus Close to Agreement
Italian reports suggest Juve have offered Sancho a four-year deal, with a €25 million (US$29.2m) fee and wages of €7 million (US$8.2m) per year — less than half of what he earns at United.
United, in the middle of a major squad overhaul after a disastrous season, are ready to take a financial hit on Sancho, whom they signed for €84.4 million (US$98.6m) from Borussia Dortmund in 2021.
The deal isn’t done yet, as United and Sancho are still working out a severance package that would ease his transition to a much lower salary in Serie A.
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