Alexis Sanchez's transfer to Manchester United 'so close' reveals Jose Mourinho

The Independent understands that the majority of details of the deal have now been sorted, with Henrikh Mkhitaryan now almost certain to go the other way.

Jose Mourinho confirmed the deal for Alexis Sanchez is nearly done (Getty Images)

Jose Mourinho has confirmed that the signing of Arsenal’s Alexis Sanchez is “so close” and he expects it to be “successful”.

The Independent understands that the majority of details of the deal have now been sorted, with Henrikh Mkhitaryan now almost certain to go the other way. The complications that come from organising a straight swap deal were one reason for the delay, as were the Armenian’s demands.

The principles of the Sanchez side of the move were however sorted by Wednesday before the 1-0 away to Burnley, explaining Mourinho’s confidence after it.

"It's so close, so close, so close that if it doesn’t happen, it’s not going to happen,” the Portuguese quipped. “I’m positive, I know my people are doing everything, absolutely everything they can, the owners with the green light, Mr [Ed] Woodward working hard, everybody is giving everything they can, and I think they will be successful.”

Mourinho also said his attack could do with that extra “competition” for places.

“In this moment, there is no competition for places,” the United boss said. “At this moment, we have four attacking players for three positions, one on the bench, Zlatan [Ibrahimovic] for whole season was not available… we look to attacking areas, and we need that extra internal competitiveness.”