Sancho and Rashford on the Move? Manchester United Faces Major Squad Overhaul
Manchester United is reportedly undergoing a significant squad shake-up, with Jadon Sancho and Marcus Rashford both potentially heading for exits. Sancho is said to be in talks with Juventus, while Rashford is reportedly a top target for Barcelona. Both players appear to be surplus to requirements under new manager Ruben Amorim.
Juventus and Man United Reach Agreement for Sancho
Manchester United and Juventus have reportedly reached a "basic agreement" for the transfer of Jadon Sancho. The fee is believed to be around £17.3 million, with the potential to rise to £21.5 million with performance-related bonuses. This move comes after Sancho's difficult spell at Old Trafford, and a loan at Chelsea, where he failed to make a significant impact.
Sancho's Severance Demands Cause Friction
Despite the agreement between the clubs, Sancho's move is not yet finalized. The winger is reportedly seeking a severance payment of at least £4.3 million from Manchester United to facilitate the transfer. This payment would compensate him for taking a significant wage cut to join Juventus. Sancho currently earns £300,000 per week at United, and he previously turned down a Chelsea offer of between £180,000 and £200,000 per week.
Juventus Shift Focus to Sancho After Conceicao Deal Collapses
Juventus's interest in Sancho emerged after their pursuit of Francisco Conceicao stalled. The Italian giants were initially prioritizing Conceicao but turned their attention to Sancho after failing to agree on terms with Porto. Initial talks between Juventus and Sancho's representatives have reportedly been positive.
Sancho's United Career Appears Over
Sancho's exclusion from Manchester United's pre-season training further suggests that his time at the club is coming to an end. Along with other players deemed surplus to requirements, he was granted extended time off to explore transfer options. Sancho last played for United in the Community Shield final in August 2024.
Fan Reaction to Sancho's Demands
Sancho's demand for a severance package has sparked a negative reaction from some fans, who view it as opportunistic given his underwhelming performances since his £73 million move to United in 2021. The saga highlights the challenges United face in offloading high-earning players who are no longer part of the club's plans.
Barcelona Make Rashford Top Target
In a separate development, Marcus Rashford has emerged as Barcelona's "clear number one target" for the left-wing position. Reports indicate that the Catalan club is "prepared to go all-in" to secure his signature. This renewed interest comes after Barcelona's failed attempts to sign Luis Diaz from Liverpool and Nico Williams, who recently signed a new long-term deal with Athletic Club.
Rashford Trains Separately, No. 10 Shirt Handed to Cunha
Like Sancho, Rashford appears to be out of favor at Manchester United. He has returned to Carrington for pre-season but is training away from the first-team squad, using medical and rehab facilities. Furthermore, he has been stripped of the No. 10 shirt, which has been given to new signing Matheus Cunha. Aston Villa opted against signing him permanently for £40 million despite an impressive spell on loan.
Rashford Willing to Take Wage Cut for Barcelona Move
Rashford is reportedly willing to take a significant wage cut from his current £325,000-a-week United salary to facilitate a move to Barcelona. This suggests a strong desire on his part to join the Spanish giants. Jose Mourinho's Fenerbahce reportedly ruled out signing Rashford due to his wage demands and his preference for Barcelona.
Rashford's Loan Spell and Desire for a "New Challenge"
Rashford spent the second half of the 2024/2025 season on loan at Aston Villa. His apparent willingness to take a pay cut for a move to Barcelona suggests he is seeking a "new challenge" and a break from his current situation at United. The decision to strip him of the No. 10 shirt is a clear indication of his standing within the club.
