Erik ten Hag has publicly made his case to keep Jadon Sancho at Manchester United beyond tonight's transfer deadline. Chelsea are reportedly exploring a deal for the winger, who was left out of the matchday squad when the Red Devils lost at Brighton last weekend.
"He is a player in our squad and we are happy with him," said Ten Hag during his press conference on Friday. "We need depth in the squad, we have to play many games until Janauary due to the new Europa League format. After the break we will play every third day and we need options."
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Chelsea are believed to be in discussions with United about a potential swap deal for Sancho which could see Raheem Sterling head the other way. However, when asked if Sancho would be staying at Old Trafford, Ten Hag added: "As far as I know, yes."
The Dutchman also spoke out on the departure of Scott McTominay to Napoli. The midfielder had spent more than two decades on United's books but the signing of Manuel Ugarte paved the way for him to depart in a £25million deal.
And the United boss admits his wish to keep McTominay was denied by the club's financial situation. "He was so important for our team, he was at Manchester United for over 22 years," Ten Hag explained. "But unfortunately, it's the rules.
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"You have to discuss the (PSR) rules to do sales and obviously homegrown players, academy players, bring more value. It's not the right thing to do but for everyone, for all parts, it's a good deal. For Scott, he is happy with it. Of course, for Napoli, a very good player but also for us."
The Red Devils have had a mixed start to the new season, with a narrow win over Fulham on the opening weekend followed by a last-minute loss to the Seagulls. Ten Hag's side will host bitter rivals Liverpool on Sunday in their biggest game of the campaign so far.
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The manager confirmed that Mason Mount will not be available, but the rest of his squad are fit and raring to give it their all against Arne Slot's unbeaten side.
"We are really looking forward to competing with them," he said. "We have a good squad, we can bring a good team out. We have to improve, we have new players to intergrate. We are looking forward to this game."
