Pep Guardiola confirms he wants to sign Alexis Sanchez. (Getty Images)

Pep Guardiola has declared Manchester City’s interest in Alexis Sanchez and suggests Arsenal have caused their own problem by failing to renew the Chilean’s contract.

Earlier this month, reports in Chile claimed that City are very close to securing a £50 million deal for the 28-year-old, while Guardiola has already been in contact with the player about a move.

Chelsea, Manchester United and Paris Saint-Germain have also been linked with Sanchez and Guardiola predicts all of Europe’s elite will be monitoring the forward’s situation at Arsenal this summer.

‘Put Kevin De Bruyne with one year left on his contract and see how many teams [are interested],’ said the City manager.

Guardiola and Sanchez hugged after Arsenal’s 2-2 draw with City earlier in April. (Reuters)

‘How do big clubs improve their teams? With better players.

‘So of course big clubs around the world are going to know his situation.

‘When the big, big players go to Barcelona they understand that Lionel Messi is unique.

‘But Alexis is just one step below. Alexis is a fantastic player and I’m so happy how he’s playing at Arsenal, especially this year scoring goals.’

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