Tony Cascarino feels Manchester United could prise Alexis Sanchez away from Arsenal, just as they did with Robin van Persie in 2012.

Alexis is almost certain to leave the club, either in January or when his contract expires in the summer. Manchester City and Paris Saint-Germain have been the most frequently touted destinations for him.

Despite that, former Republic of Ireland international Tony Cascarino thinks Manchester United should get involved, too. Writing in his column for the Times, he urged United to sign a new forward if they want to compete with City.

“[Jesse] Lingard’s success is symbolic of why United will finish second, or even third, and Manchester City will cruise to the title,” he said. “Look at Sergio Agüero – he would walk into United’s team and yet he often finds himself on the bench under Pep Guardiola.

“I think United should try to snatch Alexis Sanchez from Arsenal. They managed it with Robin van Persie, and Mourinho would be able to offer him assured starts, whereas he might face more competition at City.”

Arsenal did eventually sell Robin van Persie, who had a year remaining on his contract, to United back in 2012. However, the circumstances now are a little different. The club isn’t in desperate need of cash at the moment, hence the decision to not sell Alexis in the summer.

Money is barely a factor in this anymore. With the January window just days away, stories about Alexis’ future will soon be everywhere. The Chilean will have plenty of options to choose from.

With his form not being the best, Arsenal will have to decide if keeping him for the whole season is really worth it or not.