Who is Juanlu Sanchez? Man United approached Olympic gold medal winner who could replace Antony

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Manchester United’s recruitment team must have had one eye on the Paris 2024 Olympic Games this summer when identifying their summer targets.

The Red Devils ended the summer with five new first-team additions, with a £42m deal for Manuel Ugarte completed just hours before the transfer deadline.

But the new-look board at Old Trafford made sure to identify multiple targets for each position and for the first time in a long time the club managed to avoid overpaying.

One area where United did not strengthen this summer was out wide, even with Jadon Sancho leaving to join Chelsea on deadline day.

The club have put their faith in Amad Diallo to step up and shine, while Antony has stayed to provide depth despite links to Turkey.

Manchester United approached Juanlu Sanchez this summer

Spanish outlet ABC Sevilla report that Juanlu Sanchez was approached by United this summer after he helped Spain win gold at the Olympic Games.

The report suggests United enquired about Sanchez but ultimately were unable to get a deal over the line.

The 21-year-old played a key role in Spain’s Olympic success, including a decisive goal against Morocco in the semi-final, and he has returned to Sevilla and tied down a first-team spot at the La Liga outfit.

Sanchez has represented Spain at every level from under-16s to under-21s. He has 43 senior appearances for Sevilla so far.

He has featured in all four of Sevilla’s La Liga clashes so far this season, with manager Garcia Pimienta utilising him in central midfield as well as at right-back.

Sanchez is incredibly versatile but usually plays on the right, either as a full-back or a winger. He has quickly taken over the role of Jesus Navas at Sevilla, with the 38-year-old announcing that he will retire at the end of the season.

He has been scouted by Real Madrid since his breakthrough from Sevilla’s academy and he is now also on United’s radar.

Sanchez’s contract with Sevilla is set to expire in 2026, meaning the Spanish outfit may want to cash in next summer.

Juanlu Sanchez could have replaced Antony

Antony‘s future at United was a big talking point this summer. He received interest from Turkey late into the window but made it clear that he wants to stay in England.

Newcastle United have now been linked with Antony after they missed out on other right-sided targets in the summer.

If the Tyneside club match United’s £40m asking price, then a replacement would be needed and Sanchez fits the bill.

READ MORE: Manuel Ugarte speaks out on his fitness after Uruguay start, explains one problem he has had in recent weeks

He has played at right wing for Sevilla and his versatility means he would also add depth to the full-back roles if Tyrell Malacia is sold.

A deal for Sanchez clearly fell through over the summer, but it’s certainly one to keep an eye on in future windows.