Leeds United are ‘aware’ of Juan Mata’s ‘situation’ as he continues to search for a new club this summer, according to journalist Dean Jones.
The 34-year-old departed Manchester United last month following the expiration of his contract and is available on a free transfer at this moment in time.
What is the latest news involving Mata?
Spanish outlet AS have recently reported that Leeds' sporting director Victor Orta has reached out to Mata's father to gauge the possibility of his son moving to Elland Road.
It’s claimed that the Whites have made the Spain international a 'concrete offer', and although negotiations are not progressing slowly, it is understood that there is a willingness to get a deal done from both sides.
Leeds could face stiff competition for Mata’s signature, though, with Turkish giants Besiktas and Galatasaray also listed as potential suitors.
Neither side have made a formal approach for the creative talent at this moment in time, but the additional game time could prove to be a decisive factor in wherever the attacking midfielder ends up.
What has Jones said about Mata?
Jones has informed GiveMeSport that Leeds ‘know what would be need to sign’ Mata, while his representatives have been ‘trying to raise as much interest in him’ as they can.
He told GMS: “Leeds are aware of his situation and now know what would be needed to sign him - and Mata’s agents are happy for the story to be out there.
“We’ll have to see if it progresses, but at the moment, they have been trying to raise as much interest in him as possible.”
Would Mata be a good signing?
Mata has enjoyed an outstanding career, registering 128 goals and 157 assists in 592 appearances for Valencia, Chelsea and Manchester United.
In that time, the diminutive star claimed one Champions League crown, two FA Cups, two Europa Leagues, one Copa del Rey and one League Cup.
He was also part of Spain’s victorious side that won the 2010 World Cup and the 2012 Euros, firmly cementing Mata’s status as one of football’s top performers in the 21st century.
However, Mata played just 409 minutes of first-team actions across all competitions throughout 2021/22 and has started only 13 fixtures over the last couple of campaigns.
Whether the experienced maestro would be able to cope with Jesse Marsch’s pressing style is up for debate, but he could be a valuable member to have in the dressing room.