Borussia Dortmund goalkeeper Gregor Kobel has publicly endorsed a potential return for Jadon Sancho, stating he would welcome the winger back to the Bundesliga club. Sancho's contract with Manchester United expires this summer, opening the possibility of a free transfer, and Kobel's comments add to the growing speculation about the player's future.
Speaking to Ruhr Nachrichten, Kobel reflected on Sancho's loan return to Dortmund in the latter half of the 2023/24 season. "When he came back to us, his presence was very beneficial, even if the stats perhaps weren’t as strong as during his first spell," Kobel said. He added that he would be happy to see Sancho "back with us again with that same attitude."
Sancho initially rose to prominence at Dortmund between 2017 and 2021, becoming one of the Bundesliga's most exciting talents before his high-profile move to Manchester United. His return to Signal Iduna Park last season was seen as an attempt to rediscover his form, though his output did not match his earlier prolific spell. The 24-year-old is currently on loan at Aston Villa for the 2024/25 campaign, where he has registered one goal and three assists in 34 appearances across all competitions.
The context for a permanent move is clear for all parties involved. For Dortmund, securing a player of Sancho's technical ability on a free transfer represents a significant opportunity, especially given his familiarity with the club and its style of play. For Sancho, a return to a club where he previously thrived could offer the stable environment needed to reignite his career after a challenging period in England.
Manchester United, meanwhile, are poised to conclude a transfer saga that began with his £73 million signing in 2021. With no fee involved, his departure would finally remove him from the club's wage bill. While no formal agreement is in place, Kobel's public support underscores the positive sentiment within the Dortmund dressing room regarding a reunion.
The move would mark Sancho's third stint with Borussia Dortmund, a rare occurrence in modern football. His potential return would be a major storyline in the upcoming transfer window, with Dortmund likely hoping his second loan spell laid the groundwork for a more impactful permanent comeback.
