Sanchez joins Man United in swap for Mkhitaryan

by Genevieve Blog on January 22, 2018 in Alexis Sanchez, Arsenal, Man United, Mkhitaryan

Manchester United have completed the signing of Alexis Sanchez, with Henrikh Mkhitaryan sealing a move in the opposite direction to Arsenal.

As part of a swap deal, Mkhitaryan has signed a three-and-a-half-year deal at the Emirates, while Sanchez has penned a contract until 2022 at Old Trafford, where he will wear the No.7 shirt.

Sanchez told United’s website: “I am thrilled to be joining the biggest club in the world.

“I have spent three-and-a-half wonderful years at Arsenal and I bring with me very positive memories of that great club and its fans.

“The chance to play in this historic stadium and to work with Jose Mourinho was something I could not turn down. I am very proud to be the first Chilean player ever to play for United’s first team and I hope I can show our fans all around the world why the club wanted to bring me here.”

Mourinho added: “Alexis is one of the best attacking players in the world and he will complete our very young and talented group of attacking players.

“He will bring his ambition, drive and personality, qualities that make a Manchester United player and a player that makes the team stronger and the supporters proud of their club dimension and prestige.”

🎹 Ladies and gentlemen, please take your seats. Introducing #Alexis7…#GGMU #MUFC @Alexis_Sanchez pic.twitter.com/t9RIIx4mE4

— Manchester United (@ManUtd) January 22, 2018

The deal sees Mkhitaryan leave Old Trafford after a season and a half at Old Trafford.

Mourinho said: “I would like to wish Henrikh all the success and happiness that I am sure he is going to get. He is a player that we will not forget, especially for his contribution to our Europa League victory.”

Mkhitaryan told the Arsenal website: “I’m very happy that we could finish this deal and I’m very happy to be here. It’s a dream come true because I’ve always dreamed of playing for Arsenal. Now that I’m here, I’ll do my best for this club to create history.”

Arsene Wenger added: “Henrikh is a very complete player. He creates chances, he defends well, he can absorb distances and he’s very committed as well. I must say he’s a player who has all the attributes.”