Jadon Sancho Agrees to Napoli Move, But Manchester United Holds Firm at €25M Price Tag
The Sancho-Napoli Saga: A Transfer Chess Match
According to Italian transfer guru Gianluca Di Marzio, Jadon Sancho has given his approval to join Napoli this summer. The 24-year-old winger, who spent last season on loan at Borussia Dortmund, appears ready for a fresh challenge in Serie A. However, Manchester United’s €25 million valuation continues to be a stumbling block in negotiations.
Why Napoli Wants Sancho
From a tactical perspective, Sancho represents exactly what Napoli needs: creative width. Last season, Gli Azzurri ranked just 7th in Serie A for chance creation from wide areas (Opta data). Sancho’s 1.7 key passes per 90 minutes during his Dortmund loan would immediately address this weakness.
United’s Negotiation Strategy
While €25m seems steep for a player with just two years left on his contract, United’s stance makes financial sense. Their initial £73m investment in 2021 means they’re effectively pricing Sancho at a 70% loss already. As someone who’s analyzed hundreds of transfers, I’d argue this is United trying to salvage some dignity from a failed signing rather than expecting full value.
The Data Behind the Standoff
- Market Comparables: Similar aged wingers (23-25) with comparable stats have moved for €20-30m recently
- Wage Factor: Sancho’s reported €190k/week wages need restructuring for Serie A economics
- Resale Potential: At 24, Napoli could still profit if he rediscovers Dortmund form
This feels like a classic case where the deal eventually gets done around €20m plus add-ons. Both clubs have reasonable positions - Napoli can’t ignore FFP constraints, while United must avoid appearing as a soft negotiator after recent transfer missteps.
What do you think? Should United cut their losses or hold firm? Drop your analysis in the comments.
