The BBC’s David Ornstein has finally provided an update on Arsenal’s move for Henrikh Mkhitaryan.
Arsenal fans have been holding their breath all morning while waiting for Ornstein, a.k.a. the Ornacle, to tweet something about the Gunners’ moves for Henrikh Mkhitaryan and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang.
Although the BBC reporter, who only tends to share information he’s 100% sure about, claims Arsenal are still hopeful of completing both deals, he’s revealed that there have been no further developments. At least where Mkhitaryan is concerned.
No developments expected today on Sanchez/Mkhitaryan. Still work to do as currently Mkhitaryan deal hasn't moved on & could yet go either way. Arsenal hopeful on that + Aubameyang. Talks continue. Malcom off – meetings held but eventually deemed too inexperienced #AFC #MUFC #BVB
— David Ornstein (@bbcsport_david) January 19, 2018
The 28-year-old is set to move to north London in exchange for Alexis Sanchez, who’s heading in the other direction to Manchester United.
Ornstein also admits that, at this stage, the deal could still go either way.
The players need to be registered by 12pm (GMT) today in order to be eligible to play for their respective teams tomorrow. This means that it doesn’t look as if Mkhitaryan or Aubameyang will be facing Crystal Palace unless something massive happens very soon.
Likewise, Alexis won’t be able to face Burnley. Although the Chilean was apparently in training with Arsenal’s youngsters on Thursday.
Alexis Sanchez trained with the Arsenal youth team today. [@MaksCardenas] #afc pic.twitter.com/fXypU5bger
— afcstuff (@afcstuff) January 18, 2018
Arsenal’s pursuit of Bordeaux winger Malcom is completely dead.