Alexis Sanchez will refuse to take a pay cut when he returns from loan

Chilean star Alexis Sanchez is one of Manchester United’s top earners. He has, however, failed to do justice and has largely flattered to deceive.

His antics at United have been so poor that the club were happy to send him away on loan without bothering to sign a replacement.

With the player set to return in the summer, ESPN (h/t Express) has revealed that the 31-year-old will not agree to take a pay-cut on his £500,000-a-week contract.

In spite of both the player and the club wanting to move on, it will be hard trying to find a club that are willing to match what we pay him.

With two years still to go on his United contract, signing Sanchez has been figuratively and literally an expensive mistake.

To put things into perspective, United have spent a combined £64.65m on the player with minimal returns.

To compound United’s misery, the current pandemic could increase the financial burden on clubs, further ensuring that no one comes forward to take the Chilean off our hands.

Sanchez has no lack of suitors, the problem solely lies in matching his wages. West Ham United are the latest side to enquire about his availability. However, that deal is as good as dead if he refuses to take a pay cut.

The Chilean is entering the twilight years of his career. The offer at United is too good for him to turn down. If anything, his presence at the club is a constant reminder of the toxic dealings we have made in the recent past.

More Manchester United News

• Manchester United to rival Liverpool for Ferran Torres
• Peter Schmeichel slams calls for Dean Henderson to replace De Gea
• Manchester United to suffer £116.4m loss if season is voided

Sanchez has been a shadow of the player he was at Arsenal. He has scored just 5 goals and 9 assists in 45 appearances for the Red Devils.

It is clear that his future lies elsewhere, but how United can get him off their books remains to be seen.