Abundances in Sagittarius: present state and perspectives for the use of VLT

Sagittarius, the nearest external galaxy, will be amenable to detailed abundance studies with VLT and other 8m class telescopes. Such data, in conjuction with the similar data of our own galaxy, will allow a deeper understanding of chemical evolution. Our study conducted with NTT shows the presence of metal-rich stars with radial velocities compatible with Sagittarius membership and of stars as metal-poor as [Fe/H]=-1.5. In this talk I shall address the way in which VLT instruments will allow to clarify this intricate situation.