Sancho-Vlahovic Swap on the Cards? Juventus and Manchester United Explore Summer Blockbuster

Jadon Sancho and Dusan Vlahovic at the Heart of Potential Juventus-Man Utd Swap Deal

Could this summer finally bring an end to two long-running transfer sagas? According to fresh reports from Italy, Manchester United and Juventus are seriously exploring the possibility of a straight swap deal involving Jadon Sancho and Dusan Vlahovic. With both players facing uncertain futures at their respective clubs, the proposed exchange could represent a strategic solution to lingering contract issues—if the financials and player approval align.

What’s the Deal?

Per La Gazzetta dello Sport, Juventus have reopened lines of communication with Manchester United regarding a player-for-player transfer that would send Serbian striker Dusan Vlahovic to Old Trafford and Jadon Sancho in the opposite direction to Turin.

The Italian giants have been long-time admirers of Sancho, having previously attempted to lure the England winger to Serie A in both the 2023 and 2024 transfer windows. While those moves failed to materialise, Juventus have maintained dialogue with the player’s representatives, and their interest remains strong. Sancho, for his part, is reportedly open to a move to Italy—albeit on one major condition: a significant pay cut.

The Bigger Picture: Contracts and Club Strategy

Both Sancho and Vlahovic are tied to their clubs until 2026. However, the outlook at Manchester United and Juventus has shifted dramatically.

For Juventus, the issue is primarily financial. Vlahovic, while still productive with 16 goals and five assists in 43 appearances last season, is demanding a contract extension on improved terms. The Bianconeri, struggling with wage structure constraints and a push for squad renewal under new leadership, are reluctant to meet those demands. Letting Vlahovic run down his deal without renewal poses a significant risk, which is why the club is leaning toward selling him this summer if no agreement is reached.

Manchester United face a different challenge. Sancho, once hailed as a marquee signing, has struggled for consistency at Old Trafford. A turbulent 2023-24 campaign saw him fall out of favour with Erik ten Hag and go out on loan to Borussia Dortmund. Last season, he was sent on another temporary stint—this time to Chelsea—where he tallied five goals and 10 assists in 42 appearances, helping the Blues win the UEFA Conference League.

Despite flashes of form, Sancho’s future at United looks all but over. With Ruben Amorim set to overhaul the squad, the Englishman no longer figures prominently in the club’s long-term plans. Offloading him, even via a direct swap, would help free up wages and bring in a proven No.9—something United desperately need.

Salary the Sticking Point

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As with so many modern transfers, the biggest stumbling block isn’t quality—it’s money. Sancho’s wage packet at United is reportedly one of the highest at the club. Juventus, while ambitious in the market, are operating with tighter financial parameters and will not match Sancho’s current earnings.

For the deal to move forward, Sancho would have to accept a significant reduction in salary. That may seem like a tough pill to swallow, but the winger’s desire for a fresh start and regular football in a more stable environment could sway his decision.

On the flip side, Vlahovic has previously rejected overtures from Turkish and Saudi clubs, underlining his desire to remain at the top level in European football. A move to Manchester United would likely align with that ambition—though it would be contingent on playing time, European qualification prospects, and assurances about the direction of the club.

What Happens Next?

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Talks are expected to continue in the coming weeks, with both clubs seeing this as a realistic opportunity to resolve contract dilemmas without needing a heavy cash outlay.

Juventus will work with Sancho’s camp to try and reach common ground on wages. Meanwhile, Manchester United will do the same with Vlahovic, evaluating his openness to joining the Premier League and becoming a focal point of their attacking setup.

Crucially, both players hold the keys. The swap will only proceed if Sancho accepts a pay cut and Vlahovic is satisfied with United’s offer and vision. Should that fall into place, we could be looking at one of the more sensible—and balanced—transfer deals of the summer.

Final Thought: A Rare Win-Win?

Too often, swap deals fall apart under the weight of financial complexity or mismatched ambitions. But in this case, the motivations seem to align. Juventus get a dynamic wide player with something to prove, while Manchester United acquire a centre-forward with peak years still ahead of him.

In an era where FFP restrictions loom large and clubs are under pressure to restructure smartly, the Vlahovic-Sancho trade might just be one of the most pragmatic blockbuster deals we’ve seen in a while.

Stay tuned—this one might go down to the wire.