Finally! Juan Mata dumps Chelsea for struggling Man U

Mata

Manchester United is closing in on a deal to sign Juan Mata from Chelsea after the playmaker missed training on WednesdayAFP reports.

Mata was absent from the Blues first-team training session in the morning as the clubs hold talks over a £40m deal for the Spain international.

The 25-year-old’s representatives are in England and United hopes to agree a deal in the next few days as David Moyes looks to strengthen his midfield and boost his side’s chances of qualifying for next season’s Champions League.

Mata is desperate for regular football having found himself out of favour at Chelsea this season, starting just 11 of Chelsea’s 22 Premier League matches.

Chelsea initially demanded £45m to sell Mata to a domestic rival but the club is prepared to accept an offer worth around £40m for a player who cost £23.5m when he signed from Valencia in 2011.

A deal for Mata could also improve relations between the clubs as Chelsea continues with its attempts to sign United striker Wayne Rooney.

Mata is keen on a move to Old Trafford to boost his chances of playing for Spain at next summer’s World Cup, and the Premier League champion can offer a significant increase on his £70,000-a-week salary.