Messi Approves Barca’s Approach for Juan Mata

Lionel Messi has now approved Barcelona’s approach for Manchester United’s Juan Mata. The Spaniard’s contract at the Old Trafford lasts until June 2020 and with just a year left on his deal, the Red Devils would prefer selling him for a cut-price of 10 million euros than lose him for free in the next year.

Interestingly, Juan Mata is a player who has his roots established at Real Madrid’s setup- La Fabrica. After not having a very good future at the Santiago Bernabeu, the frontman moved on to playing for Valencia. Later, he transferred to Chelsea and is now on the books of Manchester United. Mata is reportedly looking for a return to Spain.

Juan Mata can play in an attacking midfielder’s role in addition to his usual wing and creative positions. The former Chelsea star’s experience of the game may help Frenkie de Jong and Arthur in the centre of Barcelona’s midfield, as per Lionel Messi. Moreover, the Blaugrana could also have a scoring player.

Philippe Coutinho meanwhile is a player linked with a move to Manchester United from Barcelona. The Catalans would not mind having Juan Mata in addition to some cash in exchange of the Brazil international. Whether the Blaugrana looks at younger options over Mata though remains to be seen as his age is the only negative factor.