Pranav Nair
Lazio keen on Manchester United veteran Juan Mata
Italian newspaper La Repubblica and Il Tempo via La Lazio Siamo Noi, Italian giants Lazio are keen on Manchester United veteran Juan Mata.
The 33-year-old’s contract at United expires this summer. While the club does have the option of extending it by another year, they are yet to make a call regarding it.
This has paved the way for Lazio to make a move for the Spanish veteran. Mata has so far spent seven years at United since arriving from Chelsea in 2014.
Not a young player anymore, age is catching up with the Spanish international. He is not a major part of Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s plans and can be considered expendable by the club.
Activating the player’s one-year extension could very well be just a ploy to help preserve his value. He has played a largely bit-part role this season, scoring two goals and three assists in 14 appearances. (h/t Transfermarkt)
Mata is currently United’s eighth highest-paid player and earns an annual wage of £8,320,000. Given his limited role, it makes little sense for United to keep him on for that price.
Mata’s agent, his father is in touch with Lazio and has asked for a two-year contract with the option for a third. The major stumbling block could prove to be Mata’s wages.
Whether the Spaniard will be glad to take a pay cut to join the Rome based side remains to be seen.
More Manchester United News
- PSG keen to take Manchester United star David de Gea on loan
- Arsenal closing in on Manchester United target Yves Bissouma
- Manchester United target Ryan Gravenberch set to stay at Ajax Amsterdam for another season
Speaking to the press last season, Mata admitted he is keen to stay on at the club. Having the experienced playmaker around would give United more strength in depth.
However, with a number of positions needing reinforcing, it remains to be seen if the Red Devils are ready to let Mata go. After all, cutting him loose will free up significant space on our wage bill.
