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Turkish giant Fenerbahce is reportedly eyeing a surprise move for 36-year-old Chilean star Alexis Sanchez, according to Italian daily La Gazzetta dello Sport.
After parting ways with aging stars Edin Dzeko (39) and Dusan Tadic (36), Fenerbahce is said to be preparing a €4 million ($4.71 million) offer for Sanchez, who recently decided to leave Serie A side Udinese. The offer reportedly doubles the wage he earned at the Italian club.
The Istanbul-based club is allegedly offering a two-year contract, with the second year triggered automatically if the player appears in at least 70% of matches during the season. In addition, Fenerbahce is prepared to provide Sanchez with a private jet to facilitate travel between Türkiye and Italy.
Sanchez, known as "El Nino Maravilla" (The Wonder Kid), has had a decorated career across some of the world’s biggest clubs, including Barcelona, Arsenal, Manchester United, Inter Milan, and Marseille. He previously worked with Fenerbahce coach Jose Mourinho during their time at Manchester United.
Who is Alexis Sanchez?
Born on Dec. 19, 1988, in the coastal town of Tocopilla, Chile, Alexis Alejandro Sanchez Sanchez rose from poverty to become one of the most iconic footballers in his nation’s history. Standing at 1.69 meters tall, Sanchez plays primarily as a forward or winger and is known for his explosive pace, dribbling ability, and tireless work ethic. He is affectionately nicknamed "El Nino Maravilla," meaning "The Wonder Kid."
Sanchez began his professional career at Chilean club Cobreloa before earning a move to Europe with Udinese in Italy. During his early years, he was loaned out to Colo-Colo in Chile and River Plate in Argentina, gaining valuable experience. His major breakthrough came at Barcelona, where he scored 39 goals in 88 appearances and won numerous trophies alongside football legends.
He later moved to the Premier League, joining Arsenal in 2014. In London, he enjoyed his most prolific spell, netting 60 goals in 122 matches and becoming a fan favorite. Afterward, he signed with Manchester United but struggled to replicate his earlier form. His time at Inter Milan and Marseille brought a mix of challenges and successes before returning to Udinese in 2023.
Internationally, Sanchez is Chile’s all-time top scorer with 51 goals in 168 appearances. He played a pivotal role in Chile’s historic back-to-back Copa America victories in 2015 and 2016 and was named the best player of the Copa America Centenario in 2016. He also helped his country reach the Confederations Cup final in 2017.
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