It looks like a straight swap for Alexis Sanchez is on the cards!
Manchester United midfielder Henrikh Mkhitaryan (L) (Photo: AFP)
Arsenal legend Paul Merson has backed the Gunners’ impending swap deal entailing Alexis Sanchez and Henrikh Mkhitaryan as he believes the Aremenian would be a natural fit for the North Londoners.
“I am a big fan of Mkhitaryan,” the former attacking midfielder told Sky Sports on Thursday.
Both Arsene Wenger and Jose Mourinho have admitted negotiations are underway to bring the 28-year-old Armenian to the Emirates in place of wantaway star Alexis Sanchez.
Advertisement
However, reports have suggested that any possible deal for Sanchez hinges on Mkhitaryan’s acquiescence to a switch.
Merson, who made 327 appearances for Arsenal from 1985 to 1997, said he has been following Mkhitaryan since his days at Borussia Dortmund and he would be a great signing for the London club.
“I watched him at Dortmund, where he was voted player of the season and scored plenty of goals. He has lost his way at Manchester United but if Arsenal get him, with the way they play and the way Arsene Wenger is going forward with attacking players, I think he will be a sensation.”
“He is a great signing for Arsenal if they get him,” Merson added.
Wenger stated at a press conference on Thursday ahead of his side’s clash with Crystal Palace that he expected the deal to go through by the weekend, but also admitted that nothing was guaranteed despite talks being in an advanced stage.
Initially Manchester City had made a bid for the 29-year-old Chilean, but United reportedly bettered the wages offered and the fact that they were ready to offload Mkhitaryan as well made them overwhelming favourites to sign the South American.
With Sanchez on the way out and Theo Walcott having joined Everton, Arsenal have reportedly eyed Borussia Dortmund striker Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang as a mid-season addition and are said to be close to acquiring the African striker.
(With inputs from agencies)
Advertisement
