PEP’S KEY TO SANCHEZ

MANCHESTER CITY’S hopes of signing Alexis Sanchez have been given an unlikely boost – after Leicester made a £27million swoop for Crystal Palace winger Andros Townsend.

That could spark a domino effect, which might end with City boss Pep Guardiola prising Sanchez away from Arsenal before the transfer window closes on Thursday night – despite Arsene Wenger’s vow not to sell the Chilean.

Leicester are closing in on a deal for Townsend, which would then open the door for Riyad Mahrez’s departure from the 2016 champions.

If Arsenal can beat Roma to signing Mahrez – the Moroccan star is refusing to commit himself to a move to Italy in the hope that the Gunners firm up their interest with a bid – that will pave the way for City to finally make a £50m move for Sanchez.

Guardiola is hoping everything falls his way as he looks to add more firepower to his squad.

But his plans depend on Wenger recruiting a big-name replacement.

Leicester boss Craig Shakespeare has given up on persuading Mahrez to stay at the King Power Stadium and has made a move for Townsend that is expected to be completed within the next 48 hours.

City are willing to wait until next summer to sign Sanchez for free, if Arsenal refuse to sell, but it makes financial sense for the London club to cash in now – especially if they recruit a like-for-like replacement in Mahrez.

TRANSFER SPECIAL: Pages 62-63