Surajit Das
Transfer News: Juan Mata is eyeing a Manchester United exit in January
As said by the reliable Manchester Evening News journalist Samuel Luckhurst, Juan Mata is open to leaving Manchester United in the January transfer window.
Juan Mata has been a loyal servant for Manchester United. The Spaniard made 276 appearances in the span of 7 years and has bagged 51 goals and 47 assists in the process. The 33-year-old has experienced ups and downs with the Red Devils.
However, the last two seasons have gone quiet for the former Chelsea player. The Spanish international only made 18 appearances in the previous season with only two Premier League 90-min game times.
This season has been more disappointing as the 33-year-old has only made three appearances without any English-top flight match. The Red Devils midfielder’s lack of game time attracted speculation on his Old Trafford future.
Mata is currently serving the final season of his contract. Without any approaches to pen down a new deal, he would be eligible to talk with foreign teams from January. It is believed that he is already considering an exit and has made Spain his ideal destination.
Manchester United have serious midfield concerns, which could turn into big problems in the coming seasons. Paul Pogba’s Red Devils future has remained up in the air with several top tier teams already linked with the Frenchmen.
On the other hand, Donny van de Beek hasn’t been provided with the opportunity to showcase his talents. Even after the arrival of Ralf Rangnick, the Dutch spent most of the time on the bench. He doesn’t seem to be included in the future plans of United.
At the same time, Jesse Lingard’s commitment to a Red Devils future isn’t clear at all.
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In such a case, the departure of Mata would land United with insufficient depth in the midfield. Thus, the Red Devils should start shortlisting viable alternatives who can cover for the Spaniard if he does depart Old Trafford.
