Are Man Utd still interested in Jadon Sancho?

Paul Macdonald

• Updated: 20 May 2021 11:26 BST
• 2 min read

Manchester United may target a new centre back next summer, which could see them cool their interest in Borussia Dortmund’s Jadon Sancho, according to the Manchester Evening News.

The Red Devils’ hopes of a first Premier League title in eight years took a hit last weekend after a 3-3 draw with Everton at Old Trafford. It leaves them five points adrift of Manchester City having played a game more.

It is believed that United are open to bringing in a new defender to partner captain Harry Maguire due to questions over Victor Lindelof’s form and Eric Bailly’s fitness. RB Leipzig’s Dayot Upamecano has been heavily linked with a move, although there are plenty of other clubs in the frame.

Fresh doubts have been cast over Jadon Sancho’s future. Although he is expected to leave Dortmund in the summer, it is unclear whether United will attempt to sign him again after their failure last year. Ole Gunnar Solskjaer had made him his top target, but their pursuit turned into a saga when they refused to meet Dortmund’s valuation of the England winger.

The MEN’s report suggests that it could be an ‘either/or’ scenario between Sancho and a defender, depending on where the club is set to finish at the end of the season. Although Champions League football is the minimum requirement, the fact that they have thrust themselves into the title conversation may well see them alter their recruitment plans.

Edinson Cavani’s arrival after the collapse of the Sancho deal has offered fresh perspective, too, and it looks likely that he will be offered an extension to his one-year contract at the club.