Former Arsenal star Paul Merson has praised “sensational” Henrikh Mkhitaryan ahead of his proposed move to North London.

The Manchester United star is expected to join the Gunners imminently as part of a deal that will see Alexis Sanchez move to Old Trafford.

The Armenian was in London over the weekend to complete a medical and agree personal terms with the club, and an announcement of his signing is imminent.

Many people have suggested this is a bad move for Henrikh Mkhitaryan and that he is making a step down but playing for Arsene Wenger and getting to be a part of the way Arsenal play might be just the tonic the creative midfielder needs. You could argue that Mkhitaryan’s style is much better suited to Arsenal and Arsene Wenger than playing under the ultra-conservative defensive minded management of Jose Mourinho in United’s team.

Mkhitaryan had great success last season in helping Man United win the Europa League and he may well be able to assist the Gunners in claiming the trophy for themselves as he will not be cup-tied for the competition.

Mkhitaryan is however cup-tied for the Carabao Cup so he will not be able to play for his new club in that competition.

While some have been skeptical over the move, especially as it sees Sanchez – who has been the clubs star player over the past few years – go the other way, Merson believes Arsenal have landed a star in Mkhitaryan.

Speaking on The Debate on Sky Sports, Merson said: “I watched him at Dortmund, where he was voted player of the season and scored plenty of goals.

“He has lost his way at Manchester United but if Arsenal get him, with the way they play and the way Arsene Wenger is going forward with attacking players, I think he will be a sensation.

“He is a great signing for Arsenal if they get him.

“Sanchez is top drawer, but to get that kind of quality in January is very rare. Mkhitaryan is one of the best in the Premier League. Any offensive player going to Arsenal under Arsene Wenger is a good move.”

Arsenal are also expected to move for the former team-mate of Mkhitaryan, Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, before the end of the month.

The Borussia Dortmund striker, who has found the net 21 times this season already, is reportedly keen on a move to Arsenal with the Gunners prepared to pay in excess of £50 million for his signature.