Henrikh Mkhitaryan to Arsenal: Time running out for Manchester United star to be registered in time for weekend clash with Crystal Palace

Arsenal must register Henrikh Mkhitaryan by midday on Friday for the Armenian to be available for Saturday's clash with Crystal Palace.

Wenger says a swap deal, which would see Mkhitaryan join the Gunners from Manchester United and Alexis Sanchez move the other way, is now "likely".

It is understood the transfer is being held up because Arsenal are pushing to receive a cash payment of £10million as well, while United are pursuing a straight swap.

Should the deal go through before 12pm on Friday, Mkhitaryan will be free to face Palace and Sanchez will be available for United's trip to Burnley.

Speaking about Mkhitaryan in his pre-match press conference on Thursday, Wenger said: “The wages will not be a problem.

“Yes of course. If it’s a possibility because I like the player,” he added when asked for his thoughts on the United playmaker.

“We played many times against him. He appreciates the quality of our game and the way we play football.

“That’s why he loves the club as well.”