Man United blow as Alex Sandro 'has decided to stay with Juventus'

As per reports from a number of Italian outlets this afternoon, Juventus defender Alex Sandro has decided to remain with the club this summer.

Saga

Brazilian international Sandro has developed into one of world football's finest left-backs since his move to Turin from Porto in 2015.

The 27-year-old was heavily sought-after last summer, with Premier League outfit Chelsea having targeted Sandro ahead of the Blues' return to the Champions League this past season.

However, having lost both Leonardo Bonucci and Dani Alves to AC Milan and PSG respectively during the summer transfer window, the Bianconeri were unwavering in their stance regarding Sandro, with bids of up to 70 million Euro having reportedly been turned down by the Serie A champions.

Struggles

Reports emanating from Italy over the months that followed had suggested that Sandro was close to agreeing a new contract with Juve, but a major dip in form to start out the campaign seemingly saw talks grind to a halt.

BERGAMO, ITALY – OCTOBER 01: Federico Bernardeschi of Juventus FC (C) celebrates with his team-mates after scoring the opening goal during the Serie A match between Atalanta BC and Juventus at Stadio Atleti Azzurri d'Italia on October 1, 2017 in Bergamo, Italy. (Photo by Emilio Andreoli/Getty Images)

The last couple of months of the season saw the South American rediscover his form in patches, with Sandro having even been utilised in a more advanced left-wing position by Bianconeri boss Max Allegri on occasion.

Nevertheless, though, the uncertainty surrounding his future has remained.

Suitors

The two clubs most heavily touted as potential destinations for Sandro in both the English and Italian press this summer have been PSG and Manchester United, with the former having reportedly previously agreed personal terms with the stopper.

Juve, though, would not budge on their 50 million Euro+ asking price, with PSG having only reached 40 million with their highest bid, according to reports.

Staying put

But, as per a number of updates from the likes of Goal Italia and La Gazzetta Dello Sport this afternoon, Sandro's numerous suitors look set to be left disappointed this summer, amid claims that the player himself has informed Juventus of his decision to remain with the club.

In addition, it is also claimed that the two parties will resume talks over a new contract in the near future.