Manchester United transfer news: Mkhitaryan-Sanchez could be a direct swap, and more, 16th January 2018

Mino Raiola opens up on Sanchez transfer

Alexis Sanchez to Manchester United continues to dominate the headlines as the controversial Super Agent Mino Raiola finally has his say on this high-profile transfer move.

Raiola represents Henrikh Mkhitaryan who looks all set to join Arsenal allowing Alexis to complete his move to Old Trafford. However, Raiola claims that Alexis is part of Mkhitaryan deal and not the other way around.

As quoted by The Times, Raiola said: ‘Manchester United is not going to sign Sanchez unless Mkhi agrees to join Arsenal. Sanchez is part of the Mkhi deal, not the other way around. Without him, Sanchez simply cannot go to United".

Following Raiola's quotes, Sky Sports believe this Sanchez-Mkhitaryan deal could be a direct swap deal with Man United paying off Mkhitaryan's remaining contract at Man United which is in the region of 8million.

While the talks of this direct swap deal must infuriate the Arsenal fans but in reality, they are getting a good bargain out of this considering Alexis was certain to leave in six months on a free transfer and Gunners had to then spend beyond £50-60million to find a decent replacement.

However, if Mkhitaryan makes his switch to the Emirates not only Arsene Wenger gets rid of a disgruntled player in Alexis but also has a very capable playmaker joining him in Mkhitaryan.

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Mata could leave on a free transfer

Mata started in United's 3-0 win over Stoke

Juan Mata's Manchester United career could be heading for a fast exit after the recent doubts over club's decision to hand the Spaniard a new deal, reports Calciomercato.

Despite being the likely candidate to leave the club when Jose Mourinho was named the United manager, Mata has surpassed all expectations in last 2 seasons by playing a greater number games under his former manager.

However, Mourinho's reluctance of not using Mata in the number 10 role and the rumoured transfer of Alexis Sanchez means Mata could soon become the 4th or 5th choice winger at Manchester United.

Mata signed four-and-a-half year deal back in 2014 after joining from Chelsea which is due to expire at the end of this season. Although United have the option of extending Mata's contract by another year, there has not been any discussion with Mata over the possible extension.

According to reports, Inter Milan are keen to sign Mata in the summer with player's former club Valencia also preparing an offer. However, Mata is keen to stay on at Old Trafford as he loves the club and the fans and has resolved his issues with Jose Mourinho.

Mata, 29 is one of the most gifted players in United's squad at the moment and unless the club goes on to sign 2-3 more players in the summer, one sees the merit of keeping Mata at the club.