According to German media outlet Sport Bild, Manchester United have joined Chelsea in the race to sign Bayern Munich midfielder Arturo Vidal, who is rated at €35m (£30.8m) according to Transfermarkt, and Red Devils new boy Alexis Sanchez could have a key role to play in the deal.

What's the word, then?

Well, the Chile international only has 18 months left on his contract with the Bundesliga leaders and while he has recently stated that he will stay during the current transfer window, a move could be on the cards in the summer.

Sport Bild reports that Chilean journalist Maks Cardenas believes that Sanchez is keen to lure his compatriot to Old Trafford at the end of the season, and Bayern are ready to let the 30-year-old leave after they signed Schalke midfielder Leon Goretzka this month.

How has Vidal done this season?

The midfielder has been in great form in the centre of the park for the German giants, scoring six goals and providing a further two assists in 26 appearances in all competitions.

According to WhoScored.com, his mains strengths are his tackling, defensive contribution, long shots and his passing, and he has won 57 of the 86 tackles he has made in 22 appearances in the Bundesliga and Champions League this term, making 30 interceptions, 29 key passes and successfully completing eight of the 10 dribbles he has attempted.

Would he be a good signing for United?

He certainly would be.

If the Red Devils are to lose Michael Carrick and Marouane Fellaini in the summer they will need at least one new body in the middle of the park, and the tenacious Vidal has all of the attributes to be a success for United, and looks to be a player that Jose Mourinho would like because of his energy and commitment.

Will they get him?

While they have competition from Chelsea and Inter Milan, the fact that United have Sanchez in their ranks already surely puts them in pole position to get Vidal – as long as Mourinho actually does want to bring him to Old Trafford.

With just a year left on his contract in the summer they will hope to get him for a good price – especially as he will be 31 by then – and it remains to be seen whether the club will be happy to buy the Chilean or look elsewhere for a more long-term solution.

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