Football Insider exclusive as Aston Villa manager Unai Emery applauds, as Jadon Sancho is in action in the left half of a split image.

(Credit: Imago)

Pete O'Rourke, Transfer Correspondent

Tue 24 February 2026 16:00, UK

Jadon Sancho would be open to re-joining Borussia Dortmund on a free transfer this summer, sources have told Football Insider.

The German giants have been linked with a fresh move for their former winger of late, and it is understood that the 25-year-old would be interested in returning to the Bundesliga if they take their interest to the next level.

The Manchester United loanee has spent the season with Aston Villa ahead of his contract at Old Trafford expiring this summer, and sources have now indicated that Unai Emery’s side are also keen to try and sign him permanently.

Sancho is expected to be chased by plenty of Premier League clubs when he becomes a free agent at the end of the season, while several Serie A sides are also likely to try and pursue a deal.

Jadon Sancho in action for Aston VillaCredit: Manh Tung – Breaking MediaWhat has Unai Emery about a permanent move for Jadon Sancho?

Emery initially used Sancho sparingly during the first months after his loan move was confirmed last summer, as he was largely limited to cameo appearances in the latter stages of games.

However, that has changed drastically of late, as the Spaniard has now trusted the wideman from the start in four of his team’s last five Premier League games.

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Many fans were surprised to see the United loanee left on the bench for last weekend’s clash with Leeds United, as the boss opted to start Leon Bailey in a decision that few at Villa Park saw coming.

Emery has heaped praise on Sancho in recent weeks, and he has left the door firmly ajar for his club to make a permanent swoop for him in the summer.

“He will need another contract, and maybe it could be here,” the 54-year-old said recently.

“If he plays his best football, we will want him.”

Unai Emery is interested in keeping Jadon Sancho at #AVFC beyond this season if the winger continues to show improvement.

“He will need another contract, and maybe it could be here. If he plays his best football, we will want him.”https://t.co/zK1HZ8QXtc

— John Townley (@johntownley11) February 10, 2026

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Villa are now set to push to try and keep hold of the former England international beyond the end of his current loan agreement, but they look set to potentially face heavy competition.

Aston Villa ready for Amadou Onana struggle

Football Insider revealed last weekend that Villa are desperate to try and keep hold of Amadou Onana amid interest from Manchester United.

The Belgian has been named as part of the Red Devils’ list of midfield targets for this summer, with the Villans potentially facing a struggle to keep him within their grasp.

However, it has already become clear that Emery and Co. have little intention to give up Onana without a serious fight, as he has been a key player for them once again this term.

Villa’s PSR situation could be eased by a major sale ahead of next season, but they have no desire to weaken a squad that is continuing to have them competing alongside the Premier League’s elite.

For more on the futures of Sancho and Onana, check out the expert analysis on Villa News.