Dortmund’s squad depth leaves no room for Sancho’s return

Borussia Dortmund face a crowded squad but still lack a proven wide‑forward after Giannis Konstantelias’ ACL tear, prompting speculation about a possible return for former star Jadon Sancho. The 26‑year‑old English winger has been a free agent since United declined to renew his contract.

The Westfalenstadion side, competing in the Bundesliga, currently lists 26 outfield players, many of them under‑twenty‑five, giving Kovac a luxury of options on the wings. With Giannis Konstantelias sidelined after an ACL tear, the club could have used a proven attacker, yet the coach insists the roster is already large enough. Recent arrivals such as Giannis Konstantelias and other signings have already filled many attacking roles.

Sancho’s unsettled recent past

Sancho departed Borussia Dortmund for Manchester United in 2021 for a fee of £73 million. The English winger struggled to meet expectations at Old Trafford, prompting a loan back to Dortmund in 2024 followed by brief spells at Chelsea and Aston Villa in the Premier League, where he found limited game time and form. During that loan he made limited appearances, failing to recapture his earlier form.

Man United opted not to extend his contract, leaving the 26‑year‑old a free agent. Getty AS Roma and Atletico Madrid have shown interest, while clubs from the Gulf such as Al‑Rayyan and Arabian Falcons FC are also monitoring his situation. However, no formal bid has materialised to date.

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Dortmund’s transfer stance

Head coach Niko Kovac downplayed any Sancho comeback, saying, “We have 26 outfield players, many of them young. Therefore, we don’t need to concern ourselves with that.” He added that Dortmund enjoyed a “really good transfer summer” and feel well positioned. His remarks came before Dortmund's 3‑0 victory over Paderborn.

Although most transfer windows have now closed, free agents like Sancho can still move before the next window opens. Other high‑profile unattached players include Karim Benzema, Yves Bissouma and Dani Carvajal, all of whom remain on the market. Free agents are permitted to sign at any time until the next registration period opens.

Sancho was spotted training with tenth‑tier side Flixton last month, indicating he is maintaining fitness while awaiting a suitor. Until Dortmund signals a concrete interest, his next destination remains uncertain. A move outside Europe could involve work‑permit hurdles.