Serie A side Inter are hoping to extend Alexis Sanchez's stay at the San Siro, whether that's just later this season or potentially buying him for the longer term.
Sanchez's move from Arsenal to Manchester United in January 2018, in exchange for Henrikh Mkhitaryan, was pretty much an unmitigated disaster for everyone involved.
After five goals in 45 appearances in all competitions he was shipped out on loan until the end of the season, following former United teammate Romelu Lukaku - who moved to the San Siro permanently.
Advert
The Chilean's deal is set to end before the culmination of the Europa League, which both Inter and United are still in, but, according to the Athletic, Antonio Conte's side want to extend the deal.
United and Inter already agreed to extend the deal after the pause in football for the Covid-19 pandemic however that only takes them up to the beginning of August, meaning he'll miss the rest of the European campaign.
FIFA rules state a preference for players to finish a campaign with one club but current guidelines state it's for domestic competition, something that Inter think needs urgent rectification.
Advert
However it's not just the end of the European campaign in this elongated season that the former Barcelona forward could be wanted for in the San Siro.
The report also claims that Conte could be considering a move for the 31-year-old on a longer term basis as they look for back up to Romelu Lukaku and a potential replacement for Lautaro Martinez.
The Argentine striker is wanted by Barca, with reports the Italian's may be willing to drop their previous asking price.
Advert
Martinez has failed to score in his previous five appearances, with chief executive Giuseppe Marotta admitting that the speculation has affected his form, and that's part of the reason Inter want Sanchez for the short term.
Conte's side had already wanted a back up striker for Lukaku and were close to agreeing a move for Olivier Giroud in January but a change in the price for Christian Eriksen ended the move for the Chelsea striker.
An extension of the move next season for Sanchez could be another loan or it could be a permanent deal, if the forward will take a pay cut, which could be funded by any sale of Martinez.
Advert
After the buzz about his arrival at Old Trafford and his piano playing skills when he got there it soon turned sour for club, player and the manager who brought him in.
Finally things might finally be getting better for Sanchez.
Do you think Alexis will sign for Inter in the summer? Let us know your thoughts in the comments.
Featured Image Credit:Topics: Football News, Manchester United, Barcelona, Serie A, Transfer stories, Transfer rumours, Alexis Sanchez, Premier League, Transfer news, Transfer reports, Inter, Italy