Inter hold Sanchez talks

Sanchez: Attracting interest from Inter Milan but Udinese hope he will stay

Massimo Moratti has confirmed that Inter Milan are in discussions over a move for Alexis Sanchez, although Udinese insist no offer has been made.

The Chile international has been linked with several of Europe's leading clubs after some dazzling displays for Udinese in Serie A this season.

Moratti has now admitted that Inter would be keen on bringing him in, but has played down talk that it would be as much of a coup as when they signed Ronaldo or Zlatan Ibrahimovic.

"I rate Sanchez very highly and it's no secret that we're speaking to Udinese to try and work something out," the Inter president told Sky Sport 24.

"However, I do believe the player still has a bit to prove. I think when Ronaldo and Ibrahimovic joined us they were a few notches further up."

Moratti maintains that Inter will consider their options very carefully before making a final decision on Sanchez, as they are not prepared to pay too much.

"People are talking about the ongoing negotiations with Udinese and we certainly are interested in Sanchez, but we're also looking at other players," he continued.

"I think we're very strong in attack and I don't think that is one of the areas that we'll be trying to strengthen particularly.

"Any good deal is welcome - by all means, let's bring in a few more quality players - but not at excessive prices."

Udinese hope to strengthen

Udinese revealed earlier this week they had turned down a bid of €35million (£30m) from an unnamed club for Sanchez.

And Udinese president Giampaolo Pozzo's son, Gino Pozzo, says negotiations are at a very early stage.

"There's no meeting with Moratti to discuss the sale of Sanchez," he said.

"There has been contact, which is normal, but there's been no offer from Inter."

Having qualified for the Champions League play-off round at the beginning of next season, Pozzo said Udinese are more interested in strengthening than selling.

"Our aim is not to sell our players," he explained. "You can't take money onto the pitch.

"We have the Champions League preliminary round and we want to keep a team that would enable us to progress.

"We need to find the right balance between the players' desires and our need to maintain a high level team.

"Sanchez wants to play for Udinese, even though he is not oblivious to the interest from top clubs.

"We prefer to keep him and we're working on that. He has a contract with us but most of all we have a great relationship and he's happy in Udine."