Chelsea legend Joe Cole has thrown his support behind a permanent move for Jadon Sancho, urging the club to retain the winger following his loan spell from Manchester United.

Sancho, 24, joined the Blues last summer in a deal that included a £20–25 million option to buy. While his time at Stamford Bridge has had ups and downs, he played an important role in Chelsea’s strong finish to the season, helping the club secure Champions League qualification and win the Europa Conference League.

Speaking after Chelsea’s 4-1 triumph over Real Betis in the final, Cole praised Sancho’s impact and potential, encouraging the club to strike a deal despite financial considerations.

“I think Jadon is a really great player and I think he’s done well,” Cole told talkSPORT.

“He’s been rotated in and out a bit but I want to see Jadon playing. You want a player like that in your squad. It will come down to a financial decision I imagine but I really like him.”

Sancho, who curled in Chelsea’s third goal against Betis after coming off the bench, has been told by the club he must take a significant pay cut to remain in west London. He is currently earning around £300,000 a week at Manchester United, a figure that exceeds Chelsea’s wage structure.

Despite that hurdle, Cole believes Sancho deserves the chance to stay and flourish at Chelsea under Enzo Maresca.

“Yes I do [think he’s earned a permanent move],” Cole continued.

“This is a kid who went to Dortmund and was a superstar as a kid. It wasn’t working at Man United but he’s done well, he’s got his career back on track at Chelsea.
I think there’s more to come from him as well.”

With both the player and Chelsea open to a permanent move, the decision now hinges on whether a compromise can be reached over wages. As Cole suggests, Sancho could yet become a vital part of the Blues’ long-term plans.