Juan Mata to Juventus: The Italian champions are eyeing a move for Manchester United star Juan Mata, who is out of contract next summer.
Manchester United have struggled ever since the beginning of the season. Jose Mourinho’s side is currently 8th in the Premier League with 17 points from 10 games. United also lost in their opening round of Carabao Cup to Derby County, and Mourinho and midfielder Paul Pogba were involved in an argument during a training session a day after the defeat.
In the Champions League, Manchester United are second in their group, but five points behind toppers Juventus. Valencia is two points behind the English side and are seemingly the club United will fight for a spot in the round-of-16.
Juan Mata has emerged as an influential player in United’s last few games. The Spanish midfielder was key to the side’s comeback against Newcastle, and played an important role in the win against Everton last week.
However, Manchester United could face a huge setback as Juventus are reportedly interested in securing the services of Mata.
Juan Mata to Juventus:
It has been reported by Evening Standard that Juventus are considering the possibility to sign Juan Mata next year.
The Spaniard’s contract with Manchester United ends this year, and Mata is free to negotiate with other clubs after January 1. Manchester United’s boss Jose Mourinho has reportedly urged the board to offer new contracts to Spanish duo, Mata and Ander Herrera.
Juventus are expected to make a move for Manchester United’s Spanish midfielder Juan Mata, 30 in January. Mata is in the final year of his contract at Old Trafford. (Evening Standard) pic.twitter.com/kMzB8fDm4J
— Football Transfer News (@Niban11704723) November 1, 2018
Juventus, on the other hand, have picked quality players as free agents, which include Patrice Evra, Dani Alves, Sami Khedira and Emre Can, and want to add Juan Mata to the list.
The Italian side wants to begin negotiations with Manchester United in January for the player, according to the English media outlet.
Most United goals and Assists since Sir Alex left
Goals
54 – Wayne Rooney
41 – Anthony Martial
41 – Juan Mata
Assists:
44 – Wayne Rooney
34 – Juan Mata
26 – Anthony MartialAny wonder Martial and Mata start playing regularly and we start playing well? #MUFC pic.twitter.com/eNbs4RnNyS
— The United Stand (@UnitedStandMUFC) October 31, 2018
According to Evening Standard, sources close to Juan Mata have revealed that the Spaniard is not considering a move to China or the US, as he believes he is too young to leave European football.
Jose Mourinho wants to keep Ander Herrera and Juan Mata @ManUtd “Even if they are not playing a lot, not starting matches, by the personality and character point-of-view and what they represent in the modern society in football, they are almost unique pieces I don’t want to lose”
— Simon Stone (@sistoney67) September 14, 2018
What next?
Jose Mourinho aims to bring the season back on track and the side displayed spirited performances in their last few games. Manchester United await a tough set of fixtures as the side takes on the high-flying Bournemouth, Juventus and league-leaders Manchester City in their next three games.
