Five ways United could offload Mata and get a great signing in return.
With Manchester United widely expected to offload Juan Mata to any interested party this January, it is unsurprising to see that the Spanish playmaker has generated plenty of interest from top clubs.
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Several sources suggest that Mata will not be short of suitors if he is allowed to leave Old Trafford this winter, and Louis van Gaal’s work in the transfer market so far suggests he may have some big-name replacements in mind.
The Dutchman spent big on the likes of Angel Di Maria and Radamel Falcao this summer, but arguably still looks short of the quality needed in midfield and particularly in defence.
Mata being targeted by so many big clubs could now work to United’s advantage as they look to secure some exciting deals, and here are five possible exchanges that could come about from this transfer saga in January:
5) Juventus – Arturo Vidal
With Juventus interested in Mata, it would clearly make sense for United to try to negotiate a deal for Arturo Vidal again, having tried long and hard to sign the Chilean international throughout the summer transfer window.
4) AS Roma – Kevin Strootman
Another possible swap deal that has been suggested would involve another Serie A midfielder, Kevin Strootman. The Dutchman has long been on United’s radar and the club could try to tempt AS Roma into selling the 24-year-old with the promise of Mata moving in the opposite direction.
3) Valencia – Nicolas Otamendi
With Mata’s old club Valencia keen to take him back to La Liga, United could also pursue another of their long-term targets, Argentine centre-back Nicolas Otamendi. The former Porto star has also been linked with Chelsea, but the Red Devils are certainly more in need of a top class addition to their back four.
2) Atletico Madrid – Miranda
Another centre-back who would make a superb signing for United, Miranda may be an option for the club to look at with rumours that Atletico Madrid are also keen on bringing Mata back to Spain. The Brazilian is a key player for Diego Simeone’s team, but could move if the right offer came along.
1) Real Madrid – Cristiano Ronaldo
Finally, Real Madrid’s rumoured interest in signing Mata as a replacement for Angel Di Maria could help smooth the way for Cristiano Ronaldo to re-sign for Manchester United, though a move in January is highly unlikely. Still, this could be one worth waiting until next summer for if United can make it work.