Some Manchester United fans will be getting giddy at the latest twist.
Alexis Sanchez looked, for all money, to be set for a summer switch to Manchester City. The January transfer window is upon us, however, and teams have found some more money to doff around.
Hearing that Arsenal may have been looking to cash out on the likes of Mesut Ozil and Alexis Sanchez – both out of contract this summer – United reportedly tossed their bidding hat in the ring. City were said to be freeing up £20m to take the Chilean off Arsenal’s hands but United swooped in with an extra £5m for the Gunners.
The latest developments could be some chicanery from Sanchez’ representatives to get a better deal for their man. On the same day as the United interest was revealed, Sanchez’ agent was discovered to be following United on social media and many fans got ahead of themselves.
It would be unwise of United to let a player of Sanchez’ ability to head off to City without, at least, putting a rival offer in.
That appears to be the case but City have reportedly taken a firm stance on the matter. Pep Guardiola’s side are, according to The Guardian, prepared to walk away from Sanchez deal. Ahead of City’s game with Liverpool, Guardiola was asked if a deal for the 29-year-old was imminent. He responded:
“I understand completely this question, I understand you are doing your job, but you know my answer. I am not going [to speak about it]. I’m focused on Liverpool, believe me. Alexis – everyone knows how good he is, but I am not going to answer about Alexis or other players.”
City are sticking to their £20m offer and are said to feel that Sanchez’ salary demands, and fees sought by his agent, are too high. United’s interest does not appear to be making the league leaders falter in their stance. Given that City are well stocked for attacking talent and flying in the league, their position is understandable.
You calling United Money Guillem? That’s twice today.. City have been wonderful this season but United did win 2 trophies last year and over the long term are a slightly bigger club 😉 https://t.co/aMXvfEs03b
— Gary Neville (@GNev2) January 12, 2018
If Sanchez is truly keen on reuniting with Guardiola, his former Barcelona boss, at Eastlands, he may have to take the lesser of the two Manchester deals on the table.
