Antonio Conte: What I really think about Arsenal star Alexis Sanchez

Antonio Conte has admitted that he is a keen admirer of Arsenal star Alexis Sanchez following the recent speculation linking Chelsea with a summer transfer bid for the attacker.

Sanchez has established himself as one of the Premier League’s top attacking talents since his arrival at Arsenal from Barcelona back in the summer of 2014.

The Chilean has already scored 18 goals and made nine assists in 27 Premier League games for Arsenal so far this season, as well as three goals and three assists in the Champions League.

Sanchez has been in superb form since joining Arsenal but only has one FA Cup winners’ medal to his name since the switch.

Reports in the media in recent days have suggested that Sanchez, whose Arsenal contract expires in 2018, could be a target for Chelsea this summer.

Conte was quizzed about the rumours at his news conference at Cobham on Friday, and gave little away.

However, he did admit that he is a big fan of the Arsenal attacker.

Asked about Sanchez, Conte replied: “I think it’s very disrespectful of players from other teams (to talk about this), but for sure, he’s a top player. I can say this.

“But I don’t like to talk about players from other teams because it’s disrespectful for the players of other teams, other clubs and my own players.”

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Chelsea are the heavy favourites to win the Premier League this season and are also through to the FA Cup semi-finals.