Are Juan Mata’s days at Manchester United numbered?

Juan Mata
Juan Mata

According to reports from Spanish Media Outlet AS, Manchester United could offer Juan Mata to Atletico Madrid in a swap deal for Brazilian defender Miranda. AS have cited British tabloid Sun claiming that the Red Devils are keen to sign a centre back to reinforce their defense in the summer.

United manager Louis Van Gaal has hardly picked Mata in his starting lineup in the past few weeks and could let go the Spaniard in the upcoming transfer window. Moreover, Mata has hardly played in his preferred number 10 position for the Red Devils this season. The report claims that Atletico are very fond of the former Valencia and Chelsea player and could very well be interested in the swap deal.

However, it is highly unlikely that United will go ahead with a swap deal for a defender who is in his thirties and has no Premier League experience. Moreover, Mata’s market value is quoted to be in the range of €40m. United would be better off if they ask Atletico to do business in a cash plus Diego Godin offer for Mata.

The 26 year old Mata would be no doubt frustrated with reduced game time on the pitch but he will have to understand that fitting so many attacking players in the eleven and maintaining balance is tough for Van Gaal. However, a player of Mata’s potential deserves to play week in and week out. There are certainly interesting times for the Spaniard.

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