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Football

22nd Jan 2018

Henrikh Mkhitaryan celebrates with Paul Pogba and Mino Raiola as Alexis Sanchez swap deal nears

Pogba wasn't the only United star to pay Mkhitaryan a visit in London

Simon Lloyd

The swap deal which will see Alexis Sanchez and Henrikh Mkhitaryan switch clubs is imminent.

So far, much of the media attention has been on Sanchez, who is believed to have completed his medical and all relevant paperwork while in Manchester on Sunday. There was even a leaked image of the Chilean wearing a Manchester United kit for the first time.

As for Mkhitaryan, he’s now in London after saying farewell to his United teammates on Friday, prior to their 1-0 victory over Burnley at Turf Moor.

On Sunday, the Armenian turned 29 – and some of his (soon-to-be former) United colleagues were in town to help him celebrate.

As well as being paid a visit from Marcos Rojo…

… Paul Pogba was alongside Mkhitaryan on his birthday.

The French international, who arrived back at Old Trafford at the same time Mkhitaryan signed for United from Borussia Dortmund, shared pictures of the pair on his Instagram. Mino Raiola, the agent of both players, was also there.

Happy birthday @micki_taryan ??

A post shared by Paul Labile Pogba (@paulpogba) on

‘What am I getting for my birthday?’ Mkhitaryan asked on his own Instagram.

What am I getting for my birthday..???? @paulpogba #micki #birthday

A post shared by Henrikh Mkhitaryan (@micki_taryan) on

We probably all know the answer to that particular question.

As well as Mkhitaryan, Arsenal are hopeful they can also add his former Dortmund teamate Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang to their squad before the close of the transfer window. The Gabonese striker has been one of the most prolific strikers on the planet in recent years but appears to be nearing a move.