Barcelona to offer long-term Man Utd transfer target in swap for Sancho

Suraj Radia

9 May 2024 13:00 BST
3 min read

Dortmund could face competition in their pursuit of Jadon Sancho, with Barcelona reportedly considering an intriguing exchange offer for the unwanted Manchester United star.

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Sancho returned to Dortmund on loan in January after falling out with Erik ten Hag and the 24-year-old has impressed during his second stint with the German side, helping them reach the Champions League final this week.

The German side have openly insisted they would love to keep Sancho beyond the end of the season, with the English star said to not be keen on returning to Old Trafford even if Ten Hag leaves the club.

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Although Sancho was unwanted before Dortmund came in for him, his form for the German side has led to interest from a number of teams including Barcelona.

Catalan outlet El Nacional claim Barca see Sancho as a good option for their left flank and, although Nico Williams is the club’s ideal choice, a move for the United star could be an option.

Part of the appeal for Sancho comes from United’s apparent interest in Barca’s Raphinha and the Brazilian could be offered as a makeweight along with €10 million to try and seal a deal.

© IMAGO - Raphinha could be used as a makeweight in any Barcelona deal for Sancho.

Why Barcelona could have edge over Dortmund in Sancho deal

Sancho joined United from Dortmund in 2021 for €85m to much fanfare but the ex-Manchester City youngster failed to live up to his hype, only scoring 12 times in 82 games for the club.

The winger started the season on the bench but failed to play for United after August following a public fallout with Ten Hag and he was eventually exiled after refusing to apologise.

Dortmund brought Sancho back on loan and, while his numbers have been modest with just two goals in 12 Bundesliga games, the player’s energy and attitude has impressed the German side.

There is no option to permanently buy Sancho in Dortmund’s loan but it is believed United would demand a fee in excess of €40m for a player with more than two years remaining on his deal, making Barcelona’s potential offer tempting.

Raphinha’s wages and inconsistent displays have also made him a target to be sold by Barca and United are said to have a long-standing interest in the 27-year-old.