Jadon Sancho set for Chelsea reunion as deadline day transfer close

Jadon Sancho looks set to make a deadline day move to Aston Villa after a loan spell at Chelsea (Image: Maciej Rogowski/Eurasia Sport Images/Getty Images)

Former Chelsea loanee Jadon Sancho looks set to return to Stamford Bridge this season, but as a member of the opposing team with Aston Villa reportedly close to reaching an agreement for the player.

Sancho spent last season on loan at Stamford Bridge from Manchester United. During his time at the club he played a total of 42 times in all competitions, scoring five goals and providing ten assists.

Despite the loan deal including an obligation to buy for about £25 million, Chelsea opted against activating that and instead paid a £5m penalty and sent him back to United.

Since then, Sancho has been on the search for a new home with the player having no future at Old Trafford. It now seems like he will make a deadline day move to Villa Park.

The Athletic report that agreements between Villa and United as well as Villa and the player are close to being sealed with only the final details left to sort.

The deal is separate from the one that could see goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez go the other way.

If a deal is completed before the 7pm deadline, then it will be another few months until Sancho makes a return to Stamford Bridge for the first time. Chelsea host Villa in the Premier League on Saturday, December 27 (3pm kick-off).

The reverse fixture at Villa Park is due to take place on Wednesday, March 4 2026 (8pm kick-off).

"Grateful for the experience," Sancho wrote on Instagram after his time at Chelsea came to an end. "Big love to everyone at Chelsea who made me feel at home - teammates, staff and the fans.

"Wishing the club all the best moving forward. Truly grateful, Thank you Blues."

Speaking to Sky Sports last season, Sancho revealed that he supported Chelsea growing up, with it a ‘nice feeling’ to play for the club.

"I grew up as a Chelsea fan. Didier Drogba and Frank Lampard were the players I looked up to when I was growing up so it's a nice feeling,” he said.

I feel like me making it professional alone is the best feeling. Any young kid can dream of just being out there and playing football so I'm truly blessed in that aspect."