The Daily Mail claim that while Leeds United are interested in signing free agent Juan Mata after his Manchester United release – the club are not pursuing a deal for the Spaniard, ‘as things stand’.
Mata, 34, has left Manchester United after his contract came to an end – ending an eight-year spell at Old Trafford. He clocked up 285 appearances for Erik Ten Hag’s side, having a hand in 98 goals.
Reports emerged from Spain this week that Leeds are in talks to sign Mata. Some reports even claim that Mata is keen on a move to Leeds and would take a pay cut to join Jesse Marsch’s side.
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But the Mail deliver an update. They say that while Leeds are interested, they are not pursuing a deal ‘as things stand’. That could change before the end of the window, but Leeds are well-stocked in attacking midfield.
‘As things stand’ Leeds interested in Mata: Not pursuing deal
Mata would be a brilliant signing for Leeds. That is, even if he does not play every game. Largely, because Leeds have a host of young attacking talents that could learn an enormous amount from a player like Mata.
The likes of Sam Greenwood, Brenden Aaronson, Luis Sinisterra, Darko Gyabi and more would benefit from having a dictator of creation and tempo in Mata. Whether Leeds feel it is worth a large wage, remains to be seen.
Another debate is whether Mata would fit into the Leeds side. If Marsch plays 4-2-3-1, without a doubt – sitting in front of Marc Roca and Tyler Adams. But if he reverts to his favoured 4-2-2-2, maybe not.
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