Borussia Dortmund consider third Jadon Sancho move as contract nears end
Borussia Dortmund are considering a move to re-sign Jadon Sancho on a free transfer this summer, according to the club's sporting managing director Lars Ricken. The 26-year-old winger's contract at Manchester United expires at the end of the season, potentially paving the way for a return to the Bundesliga club where he previously enjoyed two successful spells.
Ricken confirmed the club's interest while outlining their broader transfer strategy in an interview with Sport Bild. He stated that Dortmund are analysing a range of players, including Sancho, to assess whether they can improve the squad. The executive emphasized the search for an attacking player who offers immediate quality without commanding an unrealistic transfer fee, a profile that fits Sancho's current situation perfectly.
The potential move would mark a third stint at Signal Iduna Park for the England international. Sancho initially joined Dortmund from Manchester City in 2017, making his professional breakthrough and developing into one of Europe's most coveted young attackers. His form there prompted Manchester United to pay a reported €85 million to secure his services in the summer of 2021. After a challenging period in the Premier League, Sancho returned to Dortmund on a six-month loan in January 2024, reigniting his career with a series of influential performances.
Across his two spells with Dortmund, Sancho has made 158 appearances, contributing 53 goals and 67 assists. His familiarity with the club, the league, and head coach Edin Terzic is seen as a significant advantage, reducing the adaptation period typically required for a new signing. For Dortmund, a free transfer represents a financially prudent opportunity to add proven quality to their forward line as they aim to close the gap on Bundesliga champions Bayer Leverkusen.
Ricken also noted that Dortmund's recruitment plans extend beyond the attack. The impending departure of defender Niklas Süle and a medium-term injury to captain Emre Can mean the club is actively seeking reinforcements in defense. This balanced approach suggests a busy summer window is anticipated as Dortmund look to build a squad capable of competing on multiple fronts.
For Manchester United, Sancho's departure would conclude a costly chapter, with the club set to recoup none of their initial investment. His exit would also free up significant space on the wage bill as Sir Jim Ratcliffe's INEOS group oversees a restructuring of the playing squad. A permanent return to Dortmund appears the most logical next step for Sancho, offering him stability and a system in which he has consistently thrived.
The final decision will likely hinge on contract negotiations and the player's own desires, but the public confirmation of interest from a key Dortmund official indicates serious intent. Should the move materialize, it would represent one of the more notable free-agent deals of the upcoming transfer window.
