It was just a matter of days ago that Erik ten Hag suggested that Manchester United need players at Jadon Sancho's level, and now his words will be put to the test.
A public falling out last season saw Sancho banished from United's squad before moving on loan to Borussia Dortmund in January. A swift exit was expected this summer but showdown talks between the parties have seen Sancho return to training with the Red Devils.
The 24-year-old winger even started United's friendly win over Rangers at Murrayfield. It appeared to reflect Ten Hag's assertion that peace talks had gone well.
“We spoke well. Anyone can make a mistake. If the player reflects well on that, then you draw a line and move on again," Ten Hag said in an interview.
“This club needs good players, and one thing is for sure: Jadon is a terribly good player. I hope that the click still comes, and that he will contribute to our success.’’
Reports in France suggest that Paris Saint-Germain are willing to test the resolve of club and player. The Ligue 1 champions are aiming to strengthen their ranks following the departure of Kylian Mbappe.
Earlier this summer it was suggested that Sancho had a £40million price-tag, well short of the £73m they paid in 2021. They may quickly need to decide whether that fee is worth more to them than the ex-Man City academy star's services.
PSG are said to be nearing an agreement for personal terms with Sancho. Sporting director Luis Campos was impressed with the England international's outings for Dortmund as the German side reached the Champions League final.
Sancho's future will unlikely be decided by Ten Hag alone however. New United sporting director Dan Ashworth will play a role and United's Dutch boss has made clear that he has never taken transfer decisions alone at the club.
"I have never made decisions about new players on my own, far from it," said Ten Hag. "I never negotiate.
"So when people argue that I spent so much money at United: no, the club has done. They keep me broadly informed about the numbers. I only know what the player will earn, because I deal with the hierarchy in the locker room. As for transfer and agent fees, I’m not involved in any of that.”