Chelsea boss Antonio Conte is reportedly interested in a January move to sign Arsenal’s Alexis Sanchez
According to a report by The Mirror, Alexis Sanchez could be on his way to join Chelsea in January. It is understood that the Blues continue to be interested in his services, and a winter move could be on the cards.
Sanchez has been an instrumental figure for Arsenal fortunes ever since he made the switch from Barcelona in the summer of 2014. In the last three seasons, the Chilean has gone from strength to strength at the Emirates to establish himself as one of the best players in the Premier League.
And 2016/17 turned out to be the most productive campaign of his senior career, as Sanchez notched up 30 goals and 19 assists in 51 appearances across all competitions for Arsenal.
Arsenal did triumph in the FA Cup final last month, but it may not be enough for them to keep Sanchez at the Emirates. The player’s contract with the club runs out about six months, and despite tabling consistently improved contract offers to him, the North Londoners have made little progress over reaching an agreement.
However, the season was truly disastrous for the Gunners, who finished out of the Top 4 in the Premier League while also crashing out of the Champions League in the Round of 16. The present season does not look all that encouraging either, barring a few wins in recent weeks.
At Chelsea, Sanchez will certainly receive a better stage to display his talent. The Blues are incidentally in need of a player like Sanchez as well. Alvaro Morata’s absence may prove to be quite cumbersome since it may brutally expose the lack of squad depth up front for Conte.
The match against Manchester City seems like the best example to illustrate just how desperately Conte needs reinforcements in the front. The manager deployed Willian, who was less than influential. Granted, he did have other options like Pedro and Batshuayi but it could be likely that Conte is seeking proven quality options.
Sanchez can truly be a great addition compared to both Willian and Pedro on the right. If the situation demands, the Chilean can also be deployed in place of Morata if needed, making him a viable option for Chelsea.