Jadon Sancho’s loan agreement with Chelsea includes a clause requiring the London club to buy him permanently at the end of the season for a fee between £22-25 million, depending on their final Premier League position.

Chelsea, currently fourth in the league, are well clear of 14th place, which is occupied by Manchester United. If the Blues finish 14th or higher, they will automatically trigger the purchase obligation, making Sancho’s move permanent.

However, according to the Daily Mail, there is still a possibility that Sancho could return to Old Trafford if Chelsea decide not to proceed with the transfer. Insiders warn, though, that backing out of the agreement could result in a ‘significant penalty’ for Chelsea, making a U-turn on the deal complicated.

Another factor adding to the uncertainty is Sancho’s contract situation. While it’s common for players to agree to personal terms before completing a loan move, it is understood that the 24-year-old has yet to finalise his Chelsea contract, leaving the door open for a potential return to United.

Sancho has made 26 appearances for Chelsea this season, scoring twice and providing five assists.