Serie A giants Juventus are contemplating a possible bid for Manchester United midfielder Juan Mata, once the transfer window re-opens in January.
The Spaniard was brought in just nine-months ago by former manager David Moyes, breaking the Red Devils’ transfer record, but could be on his way out, with Louis Van Gaal looking to rebuild the United team.
The ex-Valencia man made a real impression when he swapped La Liga for the Premier League in 2012, winning Chelsea’s Player of the Season award two years running. The change from Stamford Bridge to Old Trafford has been a slightly more difficult transition, assisting just four goals in 18 appearances.
The 26-year-old has had success throughout his career; winning European Championships in 2008 and 2012 with a World Cup sandwiched in between during Spain’s era of dominance. Also lifting club football’s greatest prize, the UEFA Champions League, when he was the jewel in the Chelsea midfield.
Jose Mourinho shepherded Mata out of his starting XI when the Special One made his much acclaimed return to West London, forcing the playmaker out of the club at the earliest opportunity. With Edward Woodward finally getting his act together on deadline day, the 20-time champions of English football splashed the cash on a huge amount of attacking talent. Radamel Falcao and Angel di Maria were both bought, or loaned, for big money in an attempt to add further firepower alongside Wayne Rooney and Robin van Persie.
Where though, does this leave their bearded maestro? On the bench seemingly. With such an influx of forwards coupled with their more defensive options, such as summer acquisitions Ander Herrera and Daley Blind, Van Gaal may have to change his system to accommodate his big money signings. A move abroad, to what must be said another European powerhouse, may be enough to rekindle a career that was once so assured.