Alexis Sanchez joins Manchester United in swap for Henrikh Mkhitaryan

When Alexis Sanchez, forward of Chile signed for Manchester United on 30 August 2024, the Premier League felt the tremor of a rare straight‑swap transfer.

The deal sent Armenian playmaker Henrikh Mkhitaryan to Arsenal in exchange for Sanchez’s services, marking the Chilean’s first appearance for the Red Devils and creating a headline‑grabbing storyline on deadline day.

Background to the Deal

Alexis, who arrived at Arsenal from Barcelona in January 2022, spent three and a half seasons at the Emirates Stadium, netting 31 league goals and helping the Gunners finish second in the 2022‑23 campaign. His pace, work‑rate and knack for clutch moments made him a fan favourite, even as Arsenal flirted with a managerial change.

Meanwhile, Mkhitaryan joined United in January 2023, contributing eight assists and a vital goal in the club’s victorious 2022‑23 UEFA Europa League run under Jose Mourinho. By the summer of 2024, however, United’s midfield was congested, and the Argentine‑born midfielder expressed a desire for regular first‑team football.

Both clubs entered the final hours of the transfer window looking for a win‑win. United needed a proven goal‑scorer to bolster a young attacking line‑up that included Marcus Rashford, Jadon Sancho and a rising star, Alejandro Garnacho. Arsenal, on the other hand, sought a creative midfielder to replace the departing Martin Odegaard.

Details of the Swap

The agreement, confirmed by the clubs on Friday night, involved no cash changing hands – a straight player‑exchange valued at roughly £45 million based on market estimates. Sanchez signed a four‑year contract worth £180,000 per week, while Mkhitaryan inked a three‑year deal for £80,000 weekly.

• Transfer date: 30 August 2024 (transfer‑deadline day)
• Deal type: Direct player swap (no fee)
• Sanchez contract: 4 years, £180k/week
• Mkhitaryan contract: 3 years, £80k/week
• Estimated market value of swap: £45 million

United will register Sanchez at Old Trafford, while Mkhitaryan will turn up at Emirates Stadium for training next week.

Reactions from the Clubs and Manager

Speaking at a press conference outside Old Trafford, Sanchez said, "I’m thrilled to be joining the biggest club in the world. After three‑and‑a‑half wonderful years at Arsenal, I carry a lot of positive memories, but the chance to play at this historic stadium under Mourinho was impossible to turn down. I’m proud to be the first Chilean to wear the United shirt and hope to show the fans why they brought me here."

Mourinho praised the acquisition, noting, "Alexis is one of the best attacking players in the world. He adds ambition, drive and personality – qualities that define a United player. He will make our young front line stronger and give the supporters something to be proud of." He added a heartfelt farewell to Mkhitaryan: "Henrikh gave us a Europa League trophy and countless moments. I wish him every success at Arsenal; his contribution will not be forgotten."

Arsenal’s sporting director, Eduardo Veiga, expressed optimism: "Henrikh brings vision and experience that our midfield lacked. His pedigree in Europe will be invaluable as we push for a top‑four finish."

Fan and Expert Opinions

United supporters have taken to social media with a mix of excitement and caution. A poll on the club’s official forum showed 62 % of fans view the swap as a positive move, citing Sanchez’s proven goal‑scoring record. Veteran fan "RedDevil84" wrote, "Sanchez gives us a reliable striker while Mkhitaryan’s creativity will brighten Arsenal’s play. Win‑win!"

Arsenal fans, meanwhile, posted mixed reactions. Long‑time supporter "GoonerGirl" tweeted, "Mkhitaryan is a classy midfielder, but losing Sanchez hurts. Hope he shines in London." Football pundit Gary Lineker commented on Sky Sports: "Swaps of this magnitude are rare. United get a goal‑machine, Arsenal get a creator. The real test will be how quickly each player adapts to a new system."

What This Means for United and Arsenal

For United, the signing plugs a glaring deficiency up front. Last season United scored 71 league goals, the third‑highest total, but missed a lethal edge that could have turned draws into wins. Sanchez’s 15‑goal season at Arsenal suggests he can deliver in the crucial moments.

Arsenal, on the other hand, have struggled to replace Odegaard’s play‑making ability since his departure to Barcelona. Mkhitaryan’s 12 assists in his last Premier League season for United point to a player capable of unlocking tightly packed defenses – exactly what Mikel Arteta’s side needs to solidify a midfield that often looks thin against the likes of Liverpool and Manchester City.

Both clubs also see financial prudence. By avoiding a cash fee, they freed up wage‑budget space for potential summer signings, while the swap helps each comply with UEFA’s financial fair play guidelines.

Looking Ahead

United’s season opens against Brighton on 12 September 2024. Sanchez is expected to start, potentially forming a front‑three with Rashford and Sancho. If he repeats his Arsenal form, United could see an early surge up the table.

Arsenal’s first match post‑swap is against Southampton on 15 September 2024. Mkhitaryan’s debut will be closely watched, with many hoping his experience can guide the younger midfield duo of Gravenberg and Odegaard.

Overall, the swap could set a precedent for future deadline‑day deals, encouraging clubs to think beyond cash‑only transactions.