In a transfer twist that few saw coming, Inter Milan head coach Cristian Chivu is reportedly pushing to bring Alexis back to the club, in what would be one of the most unexpected returns in recent Serie A history. The Chilean forward, who previously played for Inter from 2019 to 2022, is understood to be open to a return, but has set one firm condition before giving his final green light.
Sources close to the Nerazzurri’s summer transfer operations have confirmed that Chivu has personally requested the board explore the feasibility of re-signing Sánchez, whose experience and proven goal record could bolster Inter’s attack as they prepare for a demanding 2025/26 campaign.
Let’s take a closer look at the backstory, the statistics, the current situation, and the one major condition that could make—or break—this surprising reunion.
🔙 A FLASHBACK TO THE ALEXIS SÁNCHEZ ERA AT INTER
Alexis Sánchez joined Inter Milan initially on loan from Manchester United in 2019 and later completed a permanent move in a deal that ultimately cost Inter around $65 million in wages, bonuses, and signing fees. Though many questioned the investment, Sánchez proved his worth, scoring 50 goals in 80 games across all competitions during his most productive spells with the Nerazzurri.
He was a key contributor in Inter’s 2020/21 Serie A title-winning season under Antonio Conte and continued to play a vital role under Simone Inzaghi, often coming off the bench to deliver game-changing performances.
His blend of experience, technical ability, and relentless work ethic earned him admiration from fans and teammates alike. While he wasn’t always the first name on the team sheet, Sánchez developed a reputation as a “super sub”, often deciding games with a single moment of brilliance.
🧠 CHIVU’S MASTER PLAN – WHY HE WANTS SÁNCHEZ BACK
Cristian Chivu, who took over as Inter head coach following Simone Inzaghi’s exit, is aiming to reshape the squad without completely overhauling the identity that brought Inter domestic and continental success in recent years. He wants a mix of youthful energy and seasoned leadership, and he sees Alexis Sánchez as the perfect locker-room figure to mentor younger talents while still contributing on the pitch.
A source close to Chivu reportedly told La Gazzetta dello Sport:
“Cristian respects veterans who know what it means to wear the Inter shirt. He believes Sánchez still has the hunger, and he knows Alexis can turn a 0-0 into a 1-0 at any moment.”
Chivu’s admiration for Sánchez isn’t new. The Romanian coach, who worked within Inter’s youth setup before being promoted, often praised the Chilean for his mentality and professionalism when he trained with younger players.
With Marcus Thuram and Lautaro Martínez currently leading the line and Valentín Carboni pushing for more minutes, Sánchez wouldn’t be a starter—but his return would provide much-needed depth, especially with Inter expected to compete across five competitions: Serie A, Coppa Italia, Champions League, Supercoppa Italiana, and the expanded 2025 FIFA Club World Cup.
⚠️ THE ONE CONDITION: START OR STAY AWAY
While Sánchez is reportedly flattered by Inter’s renewed interest, he has set one firm condition before any contract is signed:
He wants assurances of meaningful playing time—not just a bench role.
Sánchez, now 36, is in the twilight of his career but is still extremely competitive. After leaving Inter, he enjoyed a productive stint with Marseille in Ligue 1 and then moved to Flamengo in Brazil, where he scored 20 goals in 30 appearances last season.
Despite his age, he remains in peak physical condition and has no intention of returning to Europe “just to sit on the bench.” His representatives have communicated to Inter that Sánchez would only return if Chivu is prepared to use him regularly in rotation, particularly in big matches or against lower-table opponents.
If Inter fail to meet that demand, Sánchez is expected to pursue offers from MLS clubs and Saudi Arabia, where his market value remains strong.
💸 FINANCIALS OF THE DEAL – A LOW-RISK GAMBLE?
Unlike his original $65M cost, Sánchez’s potential return wouldn’t break the bank. Inter would likely only offer him a one-year deal with the option for a second, with bonuses tied to performance and appearances.
Sources suggest Sánchez would accept a base salary of €2.5M per season, significantly lower than his peak wages, making this a low-risk, high-upside deal for the club.
Given Inter’s recent strategy of fiscal restraint and smart, short-term veteran signings (like the return of Romelu Lukaku in 2021 and Henrikh Mkhitaryan’s extension), Sánchez fits the mould of a player who can deliver without disrupting the wage structure.
👥 FAN REACTION – MIXED EMOTIONS IN MILAN
Inter fans have reacted with a mix of nostalgia and skepticism. On one hand, Sánchez is remembered fondly for his clutch moments and flair; on the other, many believe the club should focus on building around younger talents.
Online polls among Inter supporters on Italian fan forums show about 58% in favor of the move, 30% against, and 12% undecided. Some fans worry that bringing Sánchez back could limit the development of young attackers like Carboni, Sebastiano Esposito, and Francesco Pio Esposito.
Still, many supporters believe his experience in big matches—and his familiarity with the club—could be crucial in tight Champions League fixtures and domestic cup runs.
🔄 THE FINAL OBSTACLE – FLAMENGO’S STANCE
Although Sánchez has only six months left on his contract with Flamengo, the Brazilian club has yet to publicly acknowledge any approach from Inter. Flamengo manager Tite has praised Sánchez repeatedly in recent press conferences, and it’s understood the club would only release him early if the player formally requests it.
However, with Flamengo’s squad depth in attack and their domestic campaign soon to pause for international tournaments, a mutual termination is possible, especially if Sánchez forgoes a portion of his remaining salary.
Inter, meanwhile, are reportedly prepared to wait until January to sign Sánchez on a free if a summer deal becomes too complex.
📝 CONCLUSION – A RETURN WORTH RISKING?
Cristian Chivu’s pursuit of Alexis Sánchez is more than a nostalgic gesture—it’s a calculated decision to reinforce a squad aiming for silverware on multiple fronts. While Sánchez isn’t the player he once was, he remains an intelligent and dangerous forward with plenty to offer in short bursts.
If Inter can agree to his condition of meaningful minutes, and Flamengo agree to a clean release, fans at the San Siro may soon be chanting his name once again.
Whether this fairytale reunion becomes reality or fizzles out in the negotiation phase, one thing is clear: Cristian Chivu believes in second chances—and Alexis Sánchez might just prove him right.
Stay tuned. The Nerazzurri might not be finished with Alexis yet.
