According to CBS Sports, Al-Ettifaq, a Saudi Pro League club owned by the Public Investment Fund of Saudi Arabia, with assets worth £615 billion, are interested in securing a loan deal for Manchester United forward Jadon Sancho.
They are looking to finalize the agreement before their transfer window closes at 10:00 p.m. today. The 23-year-old player has seen limited playing time this season under United manager Erik ten Hag, prompting discussions with Al-Ettifaq about a potential season-long loan move.
While Al-Ettifaq are willing to consider a buy option as part of the deal, it’s more likely that they will agree on a straightforward loan move due to the limited time available for negotiations between the two clubs.
Nevertheless, it’s uncertain whether Sancho will be willing to leave United for the Middle East, despite his dissatisfaction with how he has been treated by the Red Devils’ manager.
Must Read: Manchester United winger Antony removed from the Brazilian national squad
Sancho expressed his frustration with the Dutch manager on Sunday, following the manager’s public statement that he was excluded from the matchday squad against Arsenal due to a poor attitude in training.
He may face consequences for his recent actions, and it’s suggested that publicly calling out the manager could make it challenging for him to earn a spot in the manager’s plans.
Al-Ettifaq, led by Steven Gerrard, has already signed Jordan Henderson and Demarai Gray and are now interested in bringing the United forward to Saudi Arabia.
The final decision may ultimately rest with Erik ten Hag, and he could approve the transfer if he no longer sees Sancho as part of his plans.
Also Read: Manchester United in talks to extend Aaron-Wan Bissaka’s contract
Given Sancho’s aspiration to play regularly and secure a spot in the 2024 European Championship, which has been limited at United, a move to Saudi Arabia may not hinder his international prospects, as Gareth Southgate has called up Henderson for upcoming international matches.
In the coming hours, both Ten Hag and Sancho face a crucial decision to make.
