United in for Chilean starlet

Agent claims bid from Old Trafford rejected

By Graeme Bailey   Last updated: 16th July 2008

United in for Chilean starlet

Sanchez: United interest

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Manchester United have had a bid rejected for Chilean starlet Alexis Sanchez, according to the player's agent.

The 19-year-old is one of the most highly-rated young midfielders in South America and he played a major role in helping River Plate to the Argentine championship.

Sanchez is owned by Udinese, but he has never played for the Italians after signing from Cobreloa in 2006, instead he has been loaned back to his native continent, firstly with Colo-Colo and latterly with River.

River are desperate for him to return and have opened talks with Udinese, but they are not the only team interested with United seemingly impressed by the left winger's talents.

Reports are suggesting that United could very well see Sanchez as the long-term replacement for Cristiano Ronaldo, whose future at Old Trafford remains in the balance.

United bid

And Sanchez's agent Fernando Felicevich has told the Chilean media that United have already failed with one approach for his client.

"It was around two months ago and it was not just an enquiry, they [Manchester United] also presented an offer, but it did not meet the requirements of Udinese or Alexis so it was rejected," he told La Cuarta.

Felicevich admitted that he could not rule out a renewed United bid, and claimed that the previous offer was substantial.

"The figure rejected by Udinese was very important," he added.

Reports in Chile and Italy claim that Udinese have already put a 20million euros (£15.8million) valuation on Sanchez's head, which would seemingly be enough to put off any interested parties.

Known as the 'Wonder' (Maravilla) in his homeland, it is believed Udinese are keen to see how Sanchez will fare in Serie A.

Sanchez departed for Italy on Monday to link-up with Udinese for pre-season training.

"It is the first time he will have been so far, far away from his family so we will have to see how it goes," said Felicevich.