Transfer News: Chelsea submit enquiry for Bayern Munich midfielder Renato Sanches

Chelsea have reportedly submitted an enquiry to land Bayern Munich midfielder Renato Sanches, who is a prime target for Manchester United and AC Milan

According to Daily Mirror, Chelsea have joined the race for Bayern Munich midfielder Renato Sanches. The Blues have submitted and enquiry for the Portuguese international, who continues to be linked with the likes of Manchester United and AC Milan as well.

Renato Sanches has failed to establish himself at Bayern Munich after his Euro 2016 performances earned him a move to the Bavarians. The Allianz Arena, though, has not exactly been a stomping ground for the youngster as he failed to lock down a regular place in the starting eleven under Carlo Ancelotti.

The 19-year-old played just 17 Bundesliga matches last season and failed to open his account for the Bavarians – a shocking return of 0 goals and 0 assists. And while the return is not the matter of concern – Renato Sanches is more a holding midfielder and an enabler in the midfielder, the numbers do not justify the youngster’s talent.

Going into the season, Bayern have reinforced the midfield with the addition of Corentin Tolisso, who is sure to push Sanches further down the pecking order. There have been reports of the Portuguese being allowed to leave on loan while clubs like AC Milan and Manchester United continue to pursue a permanent deal for the youngster.

AC Milan have been touted as the favourites to land the player in a permanent deal worth around £35 million, despite reports of Bayern allowing the player to leave only in a loan deal. However, Manchester United, who were interested in the player before his move to Germany has also remained interested throughout the summer.

The Red Devils are looking for a midfielder to add to the squad and while Nemanja Matic has been linked heavily with the club, Chelsea’s resistance towards letting the Serb go to Manchester may force them to give up their pursuit of Matic.

Renato Sanches has age on his side and is said to be available for a fee less than Matic. However, Chelsea have themselves jumped into the race for the Portuguese. Antonio Conte has submitted an enquiry for Sanches as the Italian continues to scour for additions in midfield.

The Italian connection between Conte and Ancelotti might just give Conte the edge and the Chelsea manager might move ahead of AC Milan and Manchester United in pursuit of the Portuguese. For now, though, Chelsea’s entry will also encourage Manchester United in their pursuit of Matic, who may now be more accessible than before.