Erik ten Hag handed fresh Man Utd dilemma as Jadon Sancho exit route emerges

16 September 2023 , 14:12

1200     0

Erik ten Hag handed fresh Man Utd dilemma as Jadon Sancho exit route emerges

Barcelona are weighing up a shock loan move for Manchester United cast-off Jadon Sancho in the January transfer window.

Winger Sancho took to social media to refute boss Erik ten Hag's claim he was left out of the squad for United's 3-1 defeat at Arsenal because of poor training performances. Sancho was banished from first-team training by Ten Hag and was dropped for United's game against Brighton on Saturday.

Sancho’s spell at Old Trafford has been underwhelming since completing his move from Borussia Dortmund in the summer of 2021. He had emerged as one of the stars in the Bundesliga but has failed to replicate that form at United.

Catalan outlet Sport has outlined Barca’s interest in signing Sancho, fuelled by United’s apparent desperation to offload the player. It is claimed that they are hopeful of a January loan deal, but this appears to be wrought with complications over the Catalan team’s financial situation.

They struggled to register loan signings Joao Cancelo and Joao Felix late in the summer transfer window, with further outgoings required before any new players arrive. It would appear fanciful that they could fund Sancho’s wages this season without at least one major departure.

Marcel Sabitzer completes Man Utd transfer after last-minute deadline day dash

If such a move was possible, United would likely have to continue funding at least a portion of Sancho’s wages – which they may be reluctant to do as it would leave them short and without the financial clout to source a replacement.

Have Your Say! Should Man Utd look to move on Sancho in January ? Tell us what you think here.

Jadon Sancho has been banished from first-team Man United training (Getty Images)

The Blaugrana are well-stocked on wide-right attacking players with Raphinha and teenage sensational Lamine Yamal both competing for that slot, while Ferran Torres can also occupy the position. However, Xavi’s side are light on left-sided attacking players.

Ansu Fati – who has been loaned out to Brighton – and Abde Ezzalzouli – who was sold to Real Betis – were both options in that position. Joao Felix joined on loan from Atletico Madrid and may have played the role, but it is not his established role.

Gavi, who is more comfortable in a midfield role, has occupied the role for the Catalan side at times but a move for Sancho would mean the England international could establish himself in the position – for which United already have Marcus Rashford and Alejandro Garnacho.

Colin Millar