Alexis Sanchez
Alexis Sanchez Reuters

Barcelona forward Alexis Sanchez has reportedly rejected the chance to move to Manchester United during the summer transfer window, according to the Express.

The Red Devils are in the process of a major overhaul of their squad after the appointment of new manager Louis van Gaal. The Dutchman has ordered a slew of changes and is looking to revamp and add more bite to his attack.

Sanchez was prolific for Barcelona last season scoring 21 goals and assisting 11 times in all competitions. He is currently on World Cup duty with Chile.

It is claimed the Chilean international does not want to join United as firstly, he does not fancy the prospect of living in England and secondly, he is put off by the fact the Red Devils have not qualified for the Champions League next season.

The Express reports have suggested that a fee is close to being agreed with Juventus for the transfer of Sanchez. With terms having already been agreed between the Chilean winger and the Italian champions, it is only a matter of the price being sorted out.

Barcelona are supposed to be holding out for a fee of £20m for the former Udinese forward. However, it is reported that both clubs are willing to compromise on their valuations and settle for a fee of £16m.

Meanwhile, it is being reported that Van Gaal's new employers want him to make Arjen Robben his first signing of the summer. The Dutch winger was in devastating form in the destruction of Spain in their opening 2014 World Cup match.

The Bayern Munich star's link-up play with compatriot and United talisman Robin van Persie in the match will be proof they can be a potent combination at Old Trafford.

United struggled to break down teams last season which was the main cause for them finishing outside the top-four and also saw them lose more times at home than in previous years.

Robben joined his current club Bayern under Van Gaal and could be tempted to follow his fellow countryman to United despite extending his contract with the Bavarian giants.