Real Sociedad have reportedly emerged as a potential destination for Juan Mata, with the Manchester United playmaker keen on a January exit.
According to a report from El Desmarque, Juan Mata is prepared to leave Manchester United in the upcoming January transfer window. The Spanish playmaker is expected to depart on a permanent deal, with Real Sociedad emerging as one of the potential destinations.
The La Liga giants are keen on adding reinforcements in the creative department in January amid uncertainties over the long-term future of Adnan Januzaj. They are already set to rival Sevilla in the race to sign Bryan Gil on loan, but it appears Imanol Alguacil is also eyeing a move for Mata.
Having failed to feature in a single game in the Premier League this season, the veteran playmaker is understandably frustrated with his lack of game-time at Manchester United. As a result, he is keen on sealing a move away from Old Trafford in January in search of regular minutes at the highest level of football.
At the age of 33, Mata might not be at the peak of his powers. But with 271 appearances in the Premier League and the experience of winning the World Cup and the Champions League, he has the pedigree at the highest level of football.
It has made him an appealing target for Real Sociedad, who had notably signed David Silva from Manchester City last summer. La Real had enjoyed an excellent start to the new season, but after a run of four back to back defeats, they are running the risk of losing out in the race for the European places.
It appears Real Sociedad are also keen on performing well in the UEFA Europa League during the second half of the campaign, which is why they are targeting Mata in January. The 33-year-old’s vast experience and winning mentality could prove to be useful in helping the La Liga club reach its objective come May.
The Spaniard is quite a realistic target as well, although Alguacil may face stiff competition from FC Barcelona in the pursuit of the veteran Manchester United playmaker next month.
As for Manchester United, his potential departure from Old Trafford could serve as a potential boost for Ralf Rangnick, as he looks to filter out his squad and add players that are more suited to his high-octane football. In addition to Mata, Manchester United could lose a few more players in January, with Newcastle United, in particular, eyeing a triple swoop for Nemanja Matic, Phil Jones and Donny van de Beek.
