Chelsea and Manchester United have engaged in preliminary talks about a potential swap deal involving Raheem Sterling and Jadon Sancho. With the summer transfer window closing imminently, both clubs are exploring options that could see the two wingers swap clubs in a high-profile exchange.
Manchester United appear ready to part ways with Sancho before the transfer deadline on Friday night, with Juventus also showing interest in the 24-year-old winger. Sancho, who spent the latter half of last season on loan at Borussia Dortmund, where he scored three goals in 21 appearances, has struggled to regain a place in Erik ten Hag’s plans this summer. As a result, his future at Old Trafford is uncertain, and United are open to offers.
Meanwhile, Chelsea’s Raheem Sterling has found himself out of favor at Stamford Bridge. His squad number was recently reassigned to new signing Pedro Neto, signaling his potential exit. Sterling, who joined Chelsea in the summer of 2022 after successful stints with Liverpool and Manchester City, is keen to secure a move away from the club, ideally within the Premier League, as he aims to revive his England career ahead of the 2026 World Cup.
The possibility of a swap deal between Sterling and Sancho has gained traction due to the mutual interest of both clubs in the respective players. Chelsea’s desire to sign Sancho and United’s interest in Sterling make the deal an intriguing prospect, although it remains to be seen if both clubs can agree on terms before the window closes.
Sterling’s current situation at Chelsea has seen him train separately from the first team, along with other players who are also looking for moves away before the deadline. Crystal Palace had previously expressed interest in Sterling, but his substantial wages—reportedly exceeding £300,000 per week—pose a significant hurdle for potential suitors.
In addition to Sterling, Chelsea left-back Ben Chilwell is also training away from the main squad as manager Enzo Maresca works with a more streamlined group of 20 to 22 players. The ongoing efforts to trim the squad could see further departures in the coming days as Chelsea looks to finalize their roster.
With the clock ticking down to the transfer deadline, the potential swap deal between Sterling and Sancho represents a bold move by both Chelsea and Manchester United, as they seek to reshape their squads for the season ahead. Whether the deal materializes will depend on the negotiations in the final hours of the transfer window.