Chelsea Transfer News: Antonio Conte Plays Down Alexis Sanchez Rumours

Chelsea manager Antonio Conte has said he does not know if the Premier League champions are interested in buying Arsenal's Alexis Sanchez, amid speculation the Blues could bid for the Chilean.

Manchester United are hoping to land Sanchez in January, although any move may depend on Henrikh Mkhitaryan moving the other way, per Jamie Jackson at the Guardian.

There have been reports that Chelsea could make a late bid for Sanchez, and Conte was asked if the Blues could sign the Gunner.

Per Simon Johnson at the Evening Standard, he said: "I don’t know, I don’t think so. I don't want to give my opinion about the transfer market. I try to work with my players; I am happy to work with my players. We are working very well, and I am trying to build something important for this club. This is my first task."

Conte's words suggest the club are not in the running to land Sanchez, with Old Trafford now his most likely destination.

However, the deal is still far from straightforward, per John Cross at the Mirror:

The Italian also gave little away with regards signings in January, per Goal's Nizaar Kinsella:

The Blues reportedly want to bring in Andy Carroll in January, as they seek back-up for Alvaro Morata, with Sevilla interested in signing Michy Batshuayi, per Kaveh Solhekol at Sky Sports.

Conte is uncertain about Batshuayi's future at the club, per Liam Twomey at ESPN FC:

Batshuayi has made just two Premier League starts for Chelsea this season and does not appear to have earned Conte's trust. However, a replacement will be needed if he departs, otherwise the Blues will be left short of attacking options.

A move for Carroll looks a little strange, as the West Ham United man is not considered to be an elite striker. The 29-year-old has also had an injury-interrupted career and would represent a real gamble by the Blues.