Jadon Sancho’s potential return to Borussia Dortmund is facing uncertainty, with the Bundesliga club now reportedly prioritizing a move for Arsenal’s Ethan Nwaneri. The news, reported by Sky Sport Germany, casts doubt on a reunion with Dortmund for Sancho, who is currently a free agent after his loan spell at Aston Villa and the expiration of his Manchester United contract.
Sancho, 26, spent time on loan at Villa this season but failed to secure a regular starting position, making only eight starts in the Premier League. This lack of consistent form has led to Manchester United deciding against activating a one-year contract extension, leaving him available on a free transfer this summer. While several clubs have expressed interest, Dortmund initially emerged as frontrunners to replace the departing Julian Brandt.
However, Dortmund’s interest has reportedly ‘cooled’ as they now seek a different profile of player – a number ten capable of drifting wide. This shift in focus has led them to Nwaneri, who was previously a target for the club last year. The 19-year-old is currently on loan at Marseille, but has struggled to make an impact, starting only three games since joining in January.
Arsenal are reportedly open to allowing Nwaneri to leave permanently, as any transfer fee would represent pure profit due to his status as a product of their academy. Despite their willingness to sell, a deal remains ‘unlikely’ due to the ‘high transfer fee’ and the complexities of negotiating a loan arrangement with Dortmund. Marseille manager Habib Beye has indicated that Nwaneri hasn’t demonstrated enough to earn increased playing time.
Both players are facing uncertain futures following underwhelming loan spells. Sancho’s disappointing time at Villa, coupled with his previous struggles at Manchester United following his €85 million move in 2021, suggests he may need to rebuild his career outside of the Premier League. Nwaneri’s limited opportunities at both Arsenal and Marseille highlight the challenge he faces in establishing himself as a regular starter at a top club.
