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Alexis Sanchez will miss start of Manchester United pre-season tour as he is denied US visa

John Percy
Alexis Sanchez was denied a visa to the United States - Getty Images Europe
Alexis Sanchez was denied a visa to the United States - Getty Images Europe

Alexis Sanchez will miss the start of Manchester United’s tour of the United States as he has been unable to obtain a visa.

The Chilean striker is understood to be in negotiations with his lawyers to resolve the issue.

Sanchez accepted a 16-month suspended jail sentence for tax fraud in Spain this year, which prevents him from entering the States.

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But the 29-year-old remains hopeful of joining Jose Mourinho’s squad this week as they prepare for their pre-season tour.

United flew to Los Angeles on Sunday and Sanchez was a notable absentee, after training last week with team-mates at their Carrington base.

Sanchez at Barcelona - The tax fraud charge stemmed from Sanchez's time at Barcelona  - Credit: Getty Images
The tax fraud charge stemmed from Sanchez's time at Barcelona Credit: Getty Images

Another player not on the tour is defender Daley Blind, who is finalising a £15.8 million move to Ajax.

United open their pre-season campaign against Mexican side Club America on Friday.

Last season’s FA Cup finalists then face Major League Soccer side San Jose Earthquakes, AC Milan, Liverpool and Real Madrid – the last three as part of the annual International Champions Cup tournament.