Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho has opened the door to Henrikh Mkhitaryan leaving the club.
Prior to the Red Devils' 3-0 victory over Stoke City this evening, the Portuguese coach explained why Mkhitaryan had not made the squad.
The ex-Chelsea boss claimed that decision was not purely tactical, leading to suggestions that the winger is on his way out of the Old Trafford exit gates.
The Armenian international could reportedly be included in a player-plus-cash deal that would involve Arsenal star Alexis Sanchez joining United.
When asked about Mkhitaryan's future, Mourinho told Sky Sports News: "He is a Manchester United player. He is a player I like and of high quality.
"Is he going to be involved in a deal to leave us? It is possible, but it is also possible that he stays. I am trying to protect him and the team. The market is open. I have a squad of 32 players and I want to keep a squad of 32 players."
United may face competition for the signing of Sanchez amid reports that Chelsea have now entered the race.
Danielle Joynson
