Antonio Conte reveals Chelsea are NOT in for Arsenal star Alexis Sanchez giving Manchester United clear run
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ANTONIO CONTE has cleared the way for Manchester United to sign Alexis Sanchez.
The Italian was asked during his press conference if Chelsea are planning to sign the Arsenal star.
He replied: "I don't know, but I don't think so.
"I repeat: I don't want to give my opinion about the transfer market."
Sanchez looks most likely to head to Old Trafford, with Henrikh Mkhitaryan heading the other way in a cash-plus-player deal that will see the Chilean earn far more than his current weekly wage in North London.
But it appears the whole agreement hinges on the Armenian giving the thumbs up to a deal with the Gunners.
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Mkhitaryan's agent Mino Raiola told The Times: "Manchester United are not going to sign Sanchez unless Mkhi agrees to join Arsenal."
Of course, Conte could be bluffing, but given he does not have control over transfers at Chelsea, that is unlikely.
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He described his admiration for Chilean star Sanchez in last Friday's press conference, but just days later appeared to downplay the club's interest.
The Italian confirmed the involvement of Michy Batshuayi in the FA Cup replay against Norwich City tomorrow night, who had been tipped to leave Stamford Bridge.
Conte confirmed he is attempting to protect Eden Hazard from burn-out, after bringing the Belgian star off early in his last four starts.
The Blues are still involved in the FA Cup - where they have a replay - and the Carabao Cup semi-finals, as well as the Champions League and their Premier League commitments.
Conte added: "We are talking about a player that recently had a bad injury in his ankle and had a surgery.
"Usually when you have this situation you have to pay attention because you can have ups and downs. He missed pre-season with us.
"It’s normal that one player can’t always keep top form, but like the others, it’s my job to try to improve him, to put him in the best physical condition and make the best decision for the team."
He was also asked if Hazard is happy - which provoked a growling response from the Italian.
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He said: "This is not important, I am the coach I decide. Only here is this happy.
"You are very worried if the player is happy or not happy. My task is to do the best for the player and the team, not to make every single player happy.
"Every press conference, it is are you worried to make a player unhappy. No, I am worried about winning."