Alexis nears City move, but Arsenal want £35m

MANCHESTER CITY have opened talks over finally landing Alexis Sanchez this month. Arsenal are considering letting the Chilean leave this month rather than losing him for nothing in the summer, but want at least £35million. Sanchez has made his intention to join Pep Guardiola’s side clear, and discussions over a January move are under way. City had planned to sign Sanchez on a free transfer when his contract expires in the summer, but an injury to Gabriel Jesus has resulted in the league leaders bringing the move forward. City want to pay around £20m, though that sum will not be enough to prise him away from

the Emirates. Furthermore, Arsenal want a replacement in place before sanctioning Sanchez’s exit, meaning the Gunners would prefer any deal to be done early in the window to allow time to make a signing. Monaco’s Thomas Lemar and Lyon’s Nabil Fekir are on Arsenal’s radar as potential replacements for Sanchez. Meanwhile, both City and Arsenal have made contact with West Brom over signing Jonny Evans this month, with talks expected to continue over the next 48 hours. Albion, who rejected offers from the two clubs last summer, are holding out for a £25m fee for the defender.