Three European clubs are now reportedly interested in signing rumoured Leeds United target Juan Mata, with Jose Mourinho’s AS Roma side one of the potential teams eyeing the free agent playmaker.
90min claim that Olympique Marseille, Real Betis and one of Roma or Lazio have expressed an interest in signing the former Manchester United midfielder, with Mata recently leaving the Red Devils and his reported £160,000-a-week deal following the end of his contract at the club.
Reports earlier in the week shockingly suggested that United’s rivals Leeds were interested in signing Mata, with sporting director Victor Orta already in talks to sign the 34-year-old, who is determined to play another season of top-flight football despite his age and lack of minutes over the past few years.
With Jesse Marsch a fan of the 4-2-3-1 formation and Leeds close to selling Raphinha to FC Barcelona, signing as much creative talent as possible is a bold but smart strategy from the American manager, with Brenden Aaronson one of the club’s first arrivals of the window.
And Mata could be another smart recruitment for Leeds, with the former United star versatile enough to play in most midfield positions and provide quality cover for the likes of Aaronson and Jack Harrison, with the 34-year-old more than likely still good and fit enough to compete in the Premier League.
Indeed, signing Mata will be a major sign of intent from Leeds, yet with Roma potentially in the mix to plan the Spaniard and two other top European sides in Betis and Marseille also in the race, the Elland Road side have a lot of strong competition to fight off in the coming days.
Mata could be tempted to sign for European side despite Leeds interest
Playing in the Premier League for one last season seems to be Mata’s goal this season, yet despite interest from Leeds, the veteran playmaker could be tempted to sign for a Roma or Marseille this summer given that they’re competing in European competitions.
Whilst one last dance in England would be the stuff of dreams for Mata, the prospect of playing in Europe could be even greater, which could lead to Leeds missing out on the Premier League great to Mourinho or La Liga side Betis.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
