Source: United plan Sancho talks, future unclear

Manchester United are planning talks with Jadon Sancho before deciding on his future, a source has told ESPN.

Sancho hasn’t played for United since August following a public bust-up with manager Erik ten Hag.

He was loaned to former club Borussia Dortmund in January and helped the Bundesliga side reach the Champions League final, where they lost 2-0 to Real Madrid on Saturday.

A source has told ESPN that United want to speak to Sancho before deciding what action to take this summer. Technical director Jason Wilcox and director of football negotiations Matt Hargreaves are set to discuss the situation with the 24-year-old and his representatives before the start of pre-season training.

United players not involved in international tournaments this summer are expected to return to the club in July ahead of their first friendly against Rosenborg in Norway on July 15.

A source has told ESPN that a move remains the most likely outcome, although Sancho’s significant market value and high wages make a permanent transfer problematic.

Borussia Dortmund are keen to re-sign the England forward, but would want to negotiate another loan deal. Sancho, who is under contract at United until 2026, is open to rejoining Dortmund.

Wilcox and Hargreaves are leading United’s summer window while the club wait to officially appoint Dan Ashworth as their new sporting director.

Attempts to bring in Ashworth have stalled because of Newcastle United‘s demands for compensation in excess of £20m.

United’s recruitment team have drawn up a list of potential targets to strengthen all areas of the squad with centre-back, central midfield and striker made priority positions.

However, sources have told ESPN that club bosses have accepted recruitment “will not be up to full speed” until Ashworth is in place.

United had hoped to have the 53-year-old in position before the summer, but it’s now likely his arrival will be delayed until after the transfer window.

Ashworth, who has also worked for the FA and Brighton, has been on gardening leave since Feb.19 after informing Newcastle he wants to join United.