ALEXIS SANCHEZ once claimed he wanted to “follow in the footsteps” of former Inter Milan hero, Ivan Zamorano.
The Serie A giants want the Chile international to be the poster boy of their new era — but face competition from Manchester City, while Arsenal are also hopeful he won’t leave the Emirates.
And, if the striker’s quotes from 2011 are still true, it’s a move to Inter which Sanchez has always craved — insisting he dreamt of emulating his hero and former Nerazzurri icon.
Speaking before his move to the Nou Camp that summer, he said: “I am happy in Italy and I want to win many trophies in this country.
“I am ambitious and it makes me feel proud to see my name linked with some of Europe’s top clubs.
“My idol growing up was Zamorano and , in my career, I have always dreamed of becoming like him.
The Chilean was a target for several of Europe’s top clubs, such as Manchester United and the 2010 Treble-winners, after an incredible season with Udinese.
Inter had also been keen on his signature, but were outbid by Barcelona, who were then reigning European champions.
Sanchez, 28, lost his place under Tito Vilanova in his final season at Nou Camp and became surplus to requirements — but emerged as a target for several of the biggest clubs around after an impressive 2014 World Cup.
Inter were again keen, but he opted to make the move to Arsenal.
Perhaps third time will be a charm for the Italian side?
Fellow Chilean Zamorano, played for Inter from 1996 to 2001, after joining from Real Madrid, and formed a famous strike partnership with Ronaldo.
Together, they won the Uefa Cup in the 1997-98 season.
He was his country’s second top goal scorer behind Marcelo Salas on 34 goals, before both were overtaken by Sanchez.