Solskjaer, Woodward clash over last-ditch £25m sale plan for Sancho

Manchester United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is willing to sell winger Daniel James in a last-ditch bid to fund a move for Jadon Sancho, according to a report.

Borussia Dortmund winger Sancho is United’s top target this transfer window. However the Red Devils have made little progress in a deal, with Dortmund unwilling to sell for less than £108million.

As such United have turned their attentions to alternative wide players, including Barcelona’s Ousmane Dembele.

According to ESPN though, Solskjaer feels “determined” to sign Sancho before Monday’s transfer deadline. In a desperate late plan, he is reportedly willing to sell James for £25million.

The Wales international has endured mixed form since his £18million move from Swansea last summer. Indeed he has scored only four goals in 47 appearances and is struggling for game time.

ESPN adds that Solskjaer and his coaching staff do not feel James has the potential to become an established star at Old Trafford.

Therefore they are hoping to sell the 22-year-old for £25million, presenting a £7million profit. Crucially though, the funds would go a long way to allowing United to afford Sancho.

Solskjaer’s plan met with resistance

However Solskjaer’s plan has not gone down well with United’s executive vice-chairman Ed Woodward.

Woodward feels selling James after only a year would send a “negative message”, with United known around the world for their commitment to developing young players.

In any case, United have already fielded strong interest from Leeds, ESPN adds. The Premier League new boys have failed with an offer of a season-long loan deal.

Indeed Leeds all-but signed the winger last January before the move fell through.

United look at new Sancho alternative

Amid the continued discussions about a deal for Sancho, United are actively looking at alternatives.

As well as Dembele, Fiorentina’s Federicho Chiesa is a consideration but an approach for the Italian has failed.

What’s more, Sevilla’s Lucas Ocampos has also emerged on their radar after his record of 17 goals from 44 appearances in all competitions last season.

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