Finally - the Alexis Sanchez transfer saga is nearly over.It all began back last summer, where it was revealed that Alexis Sanchez was stalling over signing a new contract at Arsenal.Bayern Munich and Paris Saint-Germain had both been interested, but it seemed likely that the Chilean would eventually join Pep Guardiola at Manchester City.Although they could not wrap up a deal in the summer, upon resumption of the January transfer window it seemed almost certain that the 29-year-old would finally join the league leaders.That is until Manchester United hijacked the bid.With Guardiola hesitating, Jose Mourinho took his chance and now it looks as if Sanchez will link up with the Portuguese at Old Trafford - with Henrikh Mkhitaryan heading the other way.

SANCHEZ HAS BEEN GETTING SOME NEGATIVE COMMENTS

A lot has been made about how much money Sanchez will potentially earn at United, with some reports suggesting he could make up to £450,000 a week.

As a result, the former Barcelona player has bore the brunt of criticism from a number of pundits in the football world, with many accusing him for choosing money over trophies.

That includes former Arsenal player Martin Keown, who in a scathing rant launched against Sanchez, described him as 'the biggest mercenary in football'.

Although many share that opinion, that is not an idea advocated by Chelsea legend, Frank Lampard.

In fact, Lampard actually agreed with Sanchez's decision to join United over City.

Speaking about the transfer, the 39-year-old said: "It is not as if he's turned down City to go to China, like other players.

"He’s gone to one of the biggest, if not the biggest club in the world in Manchester United.

"If you look at it the other way, of course there's money involved, but it's more of a challenge. Here at Manchester United there's no doubt that they need an uplift - they're 12 points behind. He could be that man."

Watch the whole debate on the Sanchez to Man United transfer on BT Sport here. (Lampard's comments at 0:55)

Of course his words went down well with Man United fans, with many praising Lampard for his comments.

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MOURINHO: SANCHEZ DEAL 'SO CLOSE'

After his side's 1-0 victory against Burnley at Turf Moor, Mourinho confirmed that a deal to sign Sanchez is almost at completion.

"I expect [the transfer to be completed] soon or never," he said.

"I think is so close, so close, so close that if it doesn't happen [now] it's not going to happen so I am positive, I know my people is doing everything they can."

Arsene Wenger also confirmed Mourinho's claims, stating that the deal could be completed in the next 48 hours.

"You cannot drive up north and as well play football," the Frenchman said. "The next 48 hours will be decided one way or another.

"If you want to have a bet, it could happen. It happens only one way if the other way [Mkhitaryan] happens. It must be coordinated."