According to reports from The Sun, Barcelona are interested in making a summer move for Manchester United attacking midfielder Juan Mata.
Mata has made 217 appearances for Manchester United since joining the club from Chelsea in 2014 on a then club record transfer fee of £37.1 million. The Spaniard has 45 goals and 37 assists to his name so far.
This season, Mata has made 31 appearances across all competitions, scoring 6 goals and providing 4 assists.
Mata’s current contract at Manchester United expires this summer and he is expected to leave the club. Barcelona are willing to sign him in the summer.
However, Mata would have to take a pay cut because Barca won’t be willing to pay him the weekly salary of £170,000 he earns at Manchester United.
There have been many reports stating that Mata is considering his options for next season. Barcelona are willing to add some more depth to their midfield next season and the addition of Mata could well bring in some attacking flair to the squad.
Mata last played in Spain during his four-year stint at Valencia from 2007-2011. The Spaniard made 174 appearances for Valencia, scoring 46 goals and providing 52 assists.
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I see no reason for Mata to join Barca this season while his income is going to be lowered by £170,000 he earns currently at Manchester United. Maybe the next month Barca and Marta reach an agreement but i guess not this season.