According to a recent report by the Sun, Barcelona are eager to snap up Manchester United midfielder Juan Mata on a free transfer next summer when his contract at Old Trafford comes to an end. The same source has revealed that the Catalans have already begun negotiations with the Spanish talent’s father and agent, Juan Sr over a potential deal at the end of this campaign.
The Spanish talent has been a sporadic feature for the Red Devils this season after not being able to establish himself as a regular first-team starter under former boss Jose Mourinho and now, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer. He has still managed to put in a few match-winning displays for the Mancunian outfit during this campaign.
Mata has featured in 29 matches for Man United this term, scoring five goals while grabbing three assists in all competitions. He is also vastly experienced at the international level having represented the Spanish national side in 41 matches while scoring ten goals for them thus far.
At 30, the Burgos born talent is about to embark upon the twilight years of his career, so he needs to switch clubs to ensure regular game time on the pitch. Man United have shown no indication that they want to retain Mata beyond this summer. Hence, it is quite likely that he will depart the club when his contract expires in June.
Mata is widely regarded as one of the best playmakers in the Premier League. He has terrific close control of the ball and has an eye for a decisive pass in the final third. Furthermore, the Spaniard can also contribute by scoring important goals for his team. Hence, his departure will undoubtedly deplete Solskjaer’s squad ahead of the new season.
However, if the Man United boss can find a way to get a suitable replacement for Mata, then the Red Devils are better of letting him leave in search of greener pastures. Mata’s low work rate off the ball has garnered a lot of criticism in recent years so it is difficult to understand why Barca would want to recruit the Spanish sensation.
Even then, a move to the Nou Camp might benefit both Man United and Mata but only if Solskjaer can have a productive transfer window next summer.
