Alexis Sanchez is working hard in a bid to earn a place in Inter’s starting XI at Bologna, according to a report in the Italian media.

The Chilean forward has remained at Appiano Gentile for the March international break after South America’s federation CONMEBOL postponed all their FIFA World Cup qualifiers due to COVID-19 concerns.

Corriere dello Sport’s print edition said Sanchez had been in peak condition for two weeks now and was fitter than he had ever been since joining Inter from Manchester United in 2019.

Antonio Conte’s side visit the Stadio Renato Dall’Ara next Saturday when they will look to defend their six-point lead over AC Milan at the top of Serie A.

Sanchez’s improved physical fitness has led to enhanced performances for Inter in recent weeks, as shown by his decisive impact off the bench in their last game at Torino two weeks ago.

The 32-year-old delivered an inch-perfect cross for Lautaro Martinez to head in an 85th-minute winner at the Stadio Olimpico Grande Torino.

Sanchez tested negative for COVID-19 yesterday along with the rest of Inter’s players, the Rome-based publication reported.

The Nerazzurri’s team group will undergo yet another round today as Inter look to curb the spread of COVID-19 in their squad.