Alexis Sánchez in talks over Marseille return

Alexis Sánchez (35) excelled in his one and only season at Olympique de Marseille, netting 18 goals in 44 appearances in all competitions. Despite discussions to remain at the club beyond the end of his one-year deal, the Chilean international ultimately returned to Italy to rejoin Inter Milan.

12 months, 33 games, four goals and five assists later, Sánchez is once again a free agent, following the expiry of his contract with the Serie A side. L’Équipe understands that he is now in talks to return to Marseille on a free transfer this summer. OM’s new manager, Roberto De Zerbi, has already spoken with the former Barcelona, Arsenal and Manchester United forward regarding a move and his entourage is interested in the possibility of a return to the Vélodrome.

However, there are obstacles to a deal happening, notably financial obstacles. At the time of his departure last summer, it was thought to be impossible, on a financial level, to have both Sánchez and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang. With the Gabonese striker still at the club, despite interest from Saudi Arabia, his mere presence at Les Phocéens could make any prospective deal difficult. Udinese, Sánchez’s first club when he arrived in Europe, are also interested in the Chilean, according to L’Équipe.

GFFN | Luke Entwistle