Manchester United want to sign Alexis Sanchez on a free transfer from Arsenal next summer but accept that he is likely to join Manchester City, according to reports.
The Chile international’s current contract with Arsene Wenger’s side expires at the end of the season and he will be available as a free agent if he fails to agree a new deal.
The Daily Telegraph report that United remain interested in Sanchez but are facing a losing battle with Manchester City.
The report claims that while United are keen on the 28-year-old, the club accept that the forward is intent on joining up with Pep Guardiola at the Etihad Stadium.
City attempted to land Sanchez in the closing stages of the summer transfer window but their £60 million move was scuppered when Arsenal were unable to sign a replacement in time.
Sanchez worked with Guardiola at Barcelona and reports in October claimed that he has already decided to join City.
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Manchester United are also keen on Sanchez’s Arsenal teammate, Mesut Ozil, who is also available on a free transfer next summer.
When asked about United’s interest in Ozil on Friday, Mourinho smirked and replied: ‘No comment.’
Wenger, meanwhile, has admitted that Arsenal are open to offers for Sanchez in January, although earlier this week, the Frenchman backtracked and claimed that the Chilean, along with Ozil, will be staying until the end of the season.
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