Borussia Dortmund’s sporting director reveals why they did not sign Manchester United outcast this summer

Borussia Dortmund were linked with a move for Jadon Sancho, but a transfer did not materialize

Last season, the controversy between Erik ten Hag and Jadon Sancho cast a long shadow over Manchester United. A half-season loan to Chelsea, followed by a £5m penalty and a permanent deal, then Sancho’s return to Old Trafford—it all remained murky. Reports suggested a £40m price tag, with Roma offering £20m, but most clubs preferred a loan. Eventually, as the transfer window closed, Sancho joined Aston Villa on a season-long loan. (Via BBC)

Why the Dortmund transfer fell through

Borussia Dortmund were consistently linked with Sancho throughout the summer. According to BILD, sporting director Sebastian Kehl admitted the club had discussed his return internally, but the finances didn’t work. He explained Dortmund had already spent around €100m on new players—matching last summer’s outlay—and without state or billionaire backing, they could not justify another major deal.

“Of course, we also addressed the issue internally at some point, but there must be a feasible economic framework. With the transfers we have made, we have invested approximately €100m in new players, similar to last summer. But there is no state, no sheikh, no billionaire behind us. We have to earn our own money and, in the long run, can only spend what we previously earned. We have exhausted our financial possibilities for this transfer period.”

Sancho, for his part, was reportedly willing to take a pay cut to return. His bond with Dortmund is well known: during his 2023/24 loan spell, he played a pivotal role in the team’s run to the Champions League final. Yet, despite the mutual interest, a deal was simply not feasible this time, leaving United to consider only loan solutions.

What’s next for Sancho?