Chelsea's Jadon Sancho plan exposed as Man United outcome predicted

Former shot-stopper Ben Foster has questioned Chelsea's commitment to making Jadon Sancho's move to Stamford Bridge a permanent one.

The winger was loaned to Chelsea on the final day of the transfer window last summer, with an agreement in place that would necessitate a £25m purchase at the end of the season. The deal was understood to hinge onteam finishing 14th or above in the this season.

Sitting fourth before the return of the Premier League, seem set to meet this requirement, but recent rumours suggest they might choose to pay United £5m in compensation instead not to buy him. Ex-United 'keeper Foster, who served at Old Trafford from 2005 to 2010, suspects Chelsea will opt for the smaller fee and steer clear of a player who hasn't had the most successful season at Stamford Bridge.

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He also voiced his opinion that Sancho's salary could be the main obstacle to his exit from United. "I would be very surprised if Chelsea took up that option (to buy him) and paid the money," Foster said on his .

"He's been okay this season, buthasn't set the world alight. If he did, £25m is a bargain in today's market.

"But I think he's started 17 games for Chelsea in the Premier League this season and only got two goals and four assists. It's not what you want and it's not enough really.

"He probably is going to go back to Man United and Chelsea are going to have to pay £5m to send a player back. The problem is the wages are £200,000 per week apparently, so he's going to go back to Manchester United, and he's probably going to do something similar to what he's done at Chelsea. He'll start off the games and he'll do okay, but it's not going to be enough."

In response to queries about Sancho's form, Chelsea's head coach remained largely unconcerned during a Wednesday press conference. Maresca, when questioned for any wisdom for the forward, delivered his stance on the matter.

"No but, to be honest, probably you have more news than me, in terms of Jadon," Maresca said. "For me, Jadon's situation doesn't change; it's exactly the same.

"For sure, in terms of numbers, he could do better, no doubt, but it's not just about Jadon; I think we have more players in the same situation.

"Now, I don't need to give Jadon a message because I speak with Jadon every day. I had a conversation yesterday with him. He has just to continue to give his best until the end, and this is what we want from Jadon."

Reports indicate that Chelsea won't hurry their assessment of Sancho's situation amid increasing conjecture about a possible return to United. However, Sancho himself does not seem inclined to move back to Old Trafford and reportedly feels content at Stamford Bridge.

United are currently footing a significant part of his salary. The likelihood of Chelsea paying the termination fee is far from certain at this point, especially considering Sancho continues to be a regular starter under Maresca.

Chelsea also brokered the initial agreement with the aim of signing him on a permanent basis. There has been no clear sign that they will back out at this stage, despite having the option to do so.