Xhaka backs Mkhitaryan to succeed at Arsenal

It is looking more likely with each passing day that Mkhitaryan and Alexis Sanchez will be swapping clubs in the near future and despite the former having failed to make much of an impact at Old Trafford, Granit Xhaka believes the Armenian has what it takes to light up the Emirates.

Mkhitaryan was one of the most in-demand playmakers in world football during his time with Borussia Dortmund and having played against him during his time in the Bundesliga, Xhaka believes a move to Arsenal could help him refind that form.

"I read that in 2009 he said that he likes Arsenal," said Xhaka.

"I'm sure the style of play here would suit him. Every player has their own qualities. He is a great footballer so let's just see what happens.

"It was tough to play against him. To be honest, I would rather have played alongside him. He is a player who is obviously very good and has lots of good qualities as well."

However, despite Sanchez's impending exit, Xhaka refused to criticise the Chilean, saying that: "We all see that he always gives everything on the pitch.

"He wants to win all the time and obviously last season he scored well over 20 goals and this season he is scoring goals as well.

"To be honest he is someone I have got big respect for, he is a very nice guy. He can be serious but he has a playful side too where you can have fun with him."