There are a few more characters in the sequel to last summer’s most dragged out transfer story. Two weeks ago, Manchester City looked certain to take Alexis Sanchez off Arsenal’s hands, but then Manchester United emerged as leading contenders for the Chilean’s signature. Now, the seemingly endless transfer saga has taken another twist as Chelsea have joined the race.
It is clear why England’s top clubs are fighting for him. Undoubtedly a world-class player, Sanchez produces some of the best football in the Premier League when he wants to, and he has made it very clear he wants to leave. Out of contract in the summer, this is Arsenal’s last chance to make any money off the petulant South American.
£35m looks to be the current asking rate, which seems to have deterred Manchester City in the past week. With money hardly an obstacle at City, Guardiola may have taken a look at his side's position in the table and wondered whether his side really needs Sanchez. Sterling and Sané have been brilliant this season, and City already have enough depth to give them regular breaks. Though Sanchez will undoubtedly win the silverware he craves at City, it may only be as a bit-part player. Nor can Sanchez, who turns 30 next season, be considered a player for the future. Even City won’t spend frivolously to fix what isn’t broken.
Enter Jose Mourinho. Manchester United are still struggling to replicate the same attacking intensity of the Fergie era, and Mourinho has come in for heavy criticism for his defensive style of play. Martial and Rashford have looked good during spells this season, but ignoring their development in favour of an established Premiership talent may be too tempting for Jose. With a £350,000 weekly salary reportedly in the offing, Sanchez may find it hard to resist, even when trophies may be fewer and far between.
Conté who’s relationship with the Chelsea board can be described as fractured at best, has expressed his admiration for Sanchez. Though Conté has played down his club’s connection with the player, one wonders whether that’s really his decision? Chelsea are struggling upfront this season, with Morata desperately low on confidence, and Hazard in unpredictable form. Sanchez would provide a Chelsea side lacking depth with an excellent option. However, with neither big money nor trophies on offer, Chelsea look like the least likely option, even when they perhaps need him the most.
As things stand, it looks like Sanchez has agreed personal terms with Manchester United, in a deal that reportedly hinges on Henrikh Mikhitaryan heading the other way. After a strong start to the season, Mikhitaryan has long been out of favour with Mourinho, and the Portuguese looks happy to ship him off. Whether the deal will be a straight swap or include cash, remains to be seen.
Manchester United will certainly benefit from signing a player with Sanchez’s pedigree, although fans may be sad to see even less of the unquestionable talents of Martial and Rashford. Mata, another fan favourite, may also see reduced game time.
For Sanchez, who has always been willing to sacrifice adoration for success, they’ll be no love lost on any return trips to the Emirates. Whether he’s playing in red or blue, the season’s longest transfer story may finally be drawing to a close.
