Conte clams up, doubts Chelsea are in for Sanchez

Ian Watson

Head coach Antonio Conte does not think Chelsea are in the race to sign Arsenal forward Alexis Sanchez.

Sanchez is out of contract this summer and seemed certain to join Manchester City this month.

But the Premier League leaders on Monday evening decided to end their interest because of the costs involved, with Manchester United in pole position, while there were suggestions the Premier League champions were also in the running.

Conte last Friday spoke of his admiration for Sanchez and described any potential cut-priced deal for the Chile striker as a great opportunity.

The Italian was evasive when quizzed on Chelsea’s interest in the player, taking his usual stance in deferring matters of recruitment to the club.

Asked if Chelsea were actively seeking to sign Sanchez, Conte said: “I don’t know. I don’t think so. I don’t know, but I don’t think so.”

Conte, speaking ahead of Wednesday’s FA Cup third-round replay at home to Norwich, was reluctant to discuss the transfer market.

“About the transfer market, I prefer to talk to the club, also to give opinions,” he added.

“I repeat: I don’t want to give my opinion about the transfer market.”

Read more from Planet Sport: The story from day two at the Australian Open (Tennis365)