We’ve had a few complaints about the so far dull transfer window in the Football Transfer Tavern, but today’s breaking speculation will certainly help to liven things up.
A number of Tuesday’s newspapers, including The Guardian, report that Manchester United are to step up their interest in Chelsea outcast Juan Mata with the Stamford Bridge club braced for a new Red Devils’ club record £37 million bid.
It’s not the first we’ve heard of this speculation with yesterday’s reports suggesting that David Moyes had outlined a move for the 25-year-old Spanish international in the winter transfer window.
However overnight the gossip has erupted in the tavern with the Blues apparently ready to sell Mata to their Premier League rivals.
Interestingly for punters in the bar, United sources told news organisations that the club are yet to submit an offer for the former Valencia man but they would be interested in the two-time Chelsea Player of the Year.
Jose Mourinho has recently confirmed that he wants to keep hold of Mata, but it is thought that the midfielder is seeking regular football ahead of the World Cup in Brazil this year.
Mata has struggled for game time after the arrival of Mourinho back to Stamford Bridge, with the former Real Madrid boss convinced that Oscar and Eden Hazard represent better attacking options for his midfield.
While the Blues would be reluctant to let Mata join their Premier League rivals, a bid in excess of £37 million could be enough to persuade the Stamford Bridge club to sell, especially if they can find a suitable replacement before the transfer window closes on the 31st January.
We are not completely sure in the tavern if Mata is the answer for Moyes’ side with former United legend Gary Neville casting further doubt over the possible transfer.
Neville said he is unsure if Mata is the right fit for United, saying on Sky Sports: “That’s a lot of money, 37 million quid, but they need a signing. Does he fit with what I would call the typical philosophy of Manchester United? I would say no.”
While punters can’t see it happening here in the tavern, do you think United could get their hands on Mata in the next 10 days? Let us know your thoughts below.
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