Arsenal are having a solid start to the season but it seems they’re already getting ahead of themselves.
According to the Daily Star, Juan Mata is a transfer target for the Gunners and he could leave Manchester United on a Bosman next summer.
READ MORE: Paul Merson senses it’s time Man Utd removed the shackles in pre-Everton prediction
The report also states that Unai Emery is “a big admirer of the United playmaker,” who, despite being aged 30, remains Jose Mourinho’s most creative player.
Mata may not feature in the team most weeks, but when he does the former Valencia man gives the side a different spark. He was excellent in the second half against Chelsea last week and deserved to start again versus Juventus midweek.
However, United’s footballing style has brought up questions about starting Mata in games. If Mourinho is to play a minuscule but technically gifted player like the Spaniard in midfield, why do United start games sitting back and lumping balls long? The midfield gets bypassed over and over again, instead of looking for ways to get forward quickly with the ball on the ground and allowing the likes of Mata to express themselves in attacking positions.
The Star also claims Mata has already refused to extend his contract with United beyond this season, opening himself up for a bargain move to The Emirates, but an agreement on fresh terms could still be met.
Moreover, the Reds have been linked with a transfer tussle involving Chelsea and Aaron Ramsey, as per The Express. The 28-year-old has spent 10 years at Arsenal but appears to be on the move with his current deal expiring next summer.
Last season, Ramsey scored seven goals and made eight assists in the Premier League. Mata hit the net three times and managed five assists.
Loading ...