That is the view of BBC Sport pundit Mark Lawrenson.
Jose Mourinho wants the Arsenal star to join in time so he can feature at Turf Moor on Saturday (3pm).
If United can get Sanchez’s move confirmed before midday tomorrow, he will be eligible to play this weekend.
But it is no guarantee the 29-year-old will sign on the dotted line in time, with Henrikh Mkhitaryan holding up the deal.
The playmaker is still expected to head the other way and join Arsenal, but United are running out of time.
Either way, though, signing Sanchez will be a real coup for the Manchester club.
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How Manchester United’s starting XI could look with Alexis Sanchez
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“His impending arrival will lift the rest of the United team”
Mark Lawrenson
And Lawrenson outlines he will make a difference be it on the pitch or from the sidelines against Sean Dyche’s men.
“Alexis Sanchez could have joined Manchester United in time to feature in this game but, even if he hasn't, his impending arrival will lift the rest of the United team,” Lawrenson wrote in his BBC Sport column.
“I don't think it matters where Sanchez fits into the Arsenal side.
“He can play anywhere across the front three, so I don't think that will be an issue.
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“Throughout this whole transfer saga, his playing ability has never really been an issue, but we now know that money is a major concern.”
Sanchez trained with Arsenal’s youth team today, and he will be ready to jump straight into action for Manchester United.
Should he be ruled out to face Burnley, the Chilean’s next chance to make his debut will come at Yeovil next Friday in the FA Cup fourth round.