Renato Sanches has become one of the main candidates to eventually replace Franck Kessié in the Milan midfield. The Lille star did not shy away from the rumors. He stated that he would be open to transferring in January in an interview with L’Equipe.
“Many teams pursued me last summer, but I realized I would stay at Lille after I suffered an injury. The deal with Barcelona was basically done. The physical problem made it collapse.” Sanches sustained a meniscus tear in mid-August and returned in late September.
The Portuguese international looked back at his failed stint at Bayern Munich: “I was too young at that time, but I feel ready to join a top team now. Milan and Arsenal are interested. I discussed it with my agent, but I can not say much more. I will evaluate their offers. The Rossoneri are a great and classy club. I like them a lot.”
The Lille linchpin also indicated what his best role is: “Christophe Galtier wanted a more compact team, and that is why I played on the flank, to defend and attack better. But my true position is in the midfield, as a box-to-box.”
Sanches has tallied 5 goals and 6 assists in 67 appearances with Les Dogues in the last 3 seasons. His agent Jorge Mendes is reportedly shopping him around, as Lille are no longer title contenders. Despite the situation, it would take a conspicuous investment to acquire him since his price tag is €30M, Tuttomercatoweb reports.