Arsenal transfer news: Alexis Sanchez linked with shock move to La Liga side Sevilla… and reunion with former Chile boss Jorge Sampaoli
Europa League winners cannot match £300k-a-week demands - but striker's friendship with manager could clinch deal
ALEXIS SANCHEZ has decided to QUIT Arsenal at the end of the season, according to reports.
And the claims the Chilean’s preferred destination is SEVILLA.
Sanchez, 28, future has been plunged into increasing doubt this season as his high-profile contract stand-off with the Gunners continues.
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The striker is believed to have turned down a £180,000-a-week offer from Emirates chiefs – as he pushes for a figure closer to £300k.
Paris Saint-Germain, Juventus, Inter and AC Milan – who could all meet Sanchez’s mega demands - have all been linked with summer moves.
But now Sevilla have emerged as potential suitors – and reports suggest the Andalusian’s boss Jorge Sampaoli could be the clincher.
The Argentinian, 56, was Chile boss for four years before joining the La Liga side last summer and Sanchez netted the winning penalty as the won the 2015 Copa America on home soil.
The pair are believed to maintain a strong relationship and – while Sevilla are unlikely to be able to compete financially – it is claimed Sanchez could accept a lower wage to secure a reunion.
Relations with Arsenal chief Arsene Wenger are believed to be growing increasingly frosty.
Sanchez has reportedly grown frustrated with Gunners failures in the Premier League and Champions League this campaign.
He was involved in a furious dressing-room bust-up with team-mates after the 5-1 humiliation at Bayern Munich last month.
The result even prompted 11,000 Chilean fans to take part in a march to convince him to leave the Emirates.
Sanchez later insisted he was dedicated to Arsenal in a touching Instagram post.
But Sevilla’s interest could put the commitment to the test.
The three-time defending Europa League champions are enjoying a sensational season and currently sit third in La Liga, three points behind leaders Real Madrid.