Raheem Sterling for Jadon Sancho?! Man Utd and Chelsea in talks over blockbuster swap deal as former England internationals desperately seek fresh start

Manchester United have opened talks with Chelsea over a deal for Raheem Sterling that could see Jadon Sancho head to Stamford Bridge.

Posted Wednesday, August 28, 2024 by Goal.com

WHAT HAPPENED?
United sporting director Dan Ashworth held talks with Chelsea on Tuesday over a blockbuster deal which would see the two out-of-favour stars swap clubs, according to the Telegraph. Sterling has been frozen out at Stamford Bridge - even losing his shirt number - and the Red Devils are ready to offer him an escape route, while Chelsea want to increase Enzo Maresca's attacking options.

THE BIGGER PICTURE
With Chelsea expressing a clear intent to offload Sterling, United see an opportunity to sign the winger without paying a fee. Adding to the appeal from Old Trafford is that the Blues are expected to pay part of Sterling's wages, which exceed £300,000 per week, at his next club. Chelsea have admired Sancho for a long time and his inclusion could be enough to see a swap deal materialise.

DID YOU KNOW?
After appearing to make up with Erik ten Hag earlier in the summer, Sancho has been left out of United's squads at the start of the season. The 24-year-old could certainly benefit from a change of scenery after a hellish spell at Old Trafford. He's made just 83 appearances for the Red Devils since joining the club for £73 million in 2021, and, like Sterling, failed to make England's Euro 2024 squad.

WHAT NEXT?
The two clubs have until 11pm UK time on Friday to finalise terms on a swap deal. In the meantime, United are closing in the signing of Manuel Ugarte from PSG, while Chelsea are lining up a move for Brentford striker Ivan Toney.