According to The Telegraph, Manchester United are all set to hijack Manchester City’s deal with Udinese to sign their star winger Alexis Sanchez. It has been reported that Sanchez’s agent met with City officials on Friday as they attempted to agree upon the terms that would bring him to Eastlands. Now however, United have made it clear that they too wish to sign the 22-year-old and there could be a fierce battle at hands as to who will receive his signature.
It’s believed that Sanchez is a boyhood United fan and would prefer to join the Red Devils if a deal could be agreed upon. However, City may have the financial clout that may well prove decisive. It’s too close to call just yet. At the moment it’s United’s global appeal against City’s ceaseless wealth.
Sanchez has been linked to both clubs for the last two-or-three months and it was originally believed that Serie A side Udinese would hold out for about £35.4m before they let go of their star player. Now however, if we believe the Telegraph that figure has plummeted to about £18-26m – a much more reasonable fee.
It still surprises me that we keep seeing United linked with big money moves for wingers. Are they really so lacking in that regard? They have Nani down the left, who for my money has been the best player in the Premier League this season (certainly the most effective) and Antonio Valencia down the right, who combines a workmanlike ethos with genuine ability and continues to impress on a weekly basis. Given that they have Park Ji-Sung and Ryan Giggs to fill in when necessary; it doesn’t strike me that the wings are a priority for United at this moment in time.
There has been much talk about the need that United have to bolster the centre-of-midfield. With Scholes on the way out, I’d agree that now is the right time to start seeking out a long-term replacement. Inter Milan’s Wesley Sneijder is thought to be Sir Alex’s main target in this regard, but any move for the Dutchman would be very costly for United.
It’s clear also that United can’t afford two big money moves this summer (unless they sell an important player or two) and that Sir Alex has to prioritise the central midfield over and above the wings. Whilst I’d be happy for United to bring in a cheap but talented winger (if one can be found) I don’t think it’s necessary for Sir Alex to splash that kind of cash on Alexis Sanchez.
The Chilean international is supremely talented; it’s just that United don’t have any great need of his services. If there is set to be a transfer battle between City and United for Sanchez, I wouldn’t lose too much sleep if Roberto Mancini’s side were to end up the victors.
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This article was originally posted on Football FanCast.com by Henry Cloke
United need Sneijder as he is an attacking wizard in central midfield which is what we lack at the moment. Sanchez is an absolute must as he will provide us with an X factor. Remembering he can play on either wing and in the hole. Would also like to see Rodwell arrive as he play as a defensive midfielder or as a defender. Should Berba leave, would like to see either Hulk or Sergio Agguero arrive. The big problem is, do we have the finances??
For Sanchez, who is as consistent or more consistent than Cavani and definitely more consistent than Pastore, £18m is a steal, but £30m+ is way too high. Regardless, I’d prefer it if he stayed on the peninsula.