The fight for Chelsea star Juan Mata

It’s been plastered all over the papers, but Jose Mourinho doesn’t seem to fancy Juan Mata. Chelsea’s player of the year last season is rusting on the bench and there are a whole load of people who are frustrated with it. Not least Juan Mata himself. However, the Metro are reporting that there are a host of clubs after his signature with surprise package Valencia in the driving seat. Or so they think.

The La Liga side have apparently holding talks with sponsors and local businesses in order to gain funds to sign the Spaniard as the club continue their fight from financial insecurities.

So let’s take a look at the candidates, apart from Valencia – who expect Mata to take a pay cut to join his beloved club.

Manchester United are said to be after the little playmaker, who created 95 chances last season, as they continue their search for the perfect midfield. David Moyes is determined to get the balance right and Mata could be the perfect addition for that.

Arsenal are also interested, according to the paper. Imagine the creativity generated between Mata, Mesut Ozil and Santi Cazorla. Olivier Giroud, nor the Arsenal fans, would not know what’s hit them.

Staying in north London, Tottenham are also said to be continuing their chase of the little wizard. The wealth of talent in the Spurs midfield is supposedly not enough to keep Andre Villas-Boas happy and the Portuguese coach wants Mata.

But if Mata prefers sunnier shores, then Real Madrid are supposedly interested. The thought of Mata joining the likes of Cristiano Ronaldo, Isco and Gareth Bale in the attacking areas is a thought that would leave even Messi quaking.

Where would you go, if you were Mata?