The Athletic journalist David Ornstein has confirmed that Manchester United are very much in the driving seat to sign Borussia Dortmund winger Jadon Sancho.

Chelsea were also believed to be keen on the 20-year-old but the former BBC reporter claims the Blues have not held conversations with the England international’s representatives for a number of months:

“Chelsea made contact in January but there’s been no follow up since.”

Frank Lampard’s side signed Hakim Ziyech from Ajax in February so perhaps their interest in Sancho has cooled off since then. Barcelona has also been mentioned but a move to Spain isn’t believed to be a realistic possibility. In contrast, Ornstein says United are in constant talks with the player’s entourage:

“Sancho was expecting to move this summer and there’s still a very high chance that will happen. There’s an understanding between Sancho and Borussia Dortmund that if the right price arrives then he can go.”

“There is confidence among his camp that an offer will arrive, they almost have no doubt about that. Manchester United have been the most proactive on that front, they’ve been in regular contact and very recently.”

The biggest obstacle remains the winger’s asking price. Dortmund are not going to compromise on their €120m-€130m price tag despite the current financial climate. They may be open to a club paying less upfront, with payments staggered over many years, but it is thought the Red Devils will have to pay a club-record fee to get their man.