Report: Leeds open talks to sign Juan Mata on free transfer

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Leeds United are interested in signing Juan Mata, with AS in Spain reporting that Victor Orta has spoken to the midfielder’s father about a potential Elland Road switch.

Mata is a free agent after leaving Manchester United at the end of last season. The 34-year-old made 285 appearances for the club across more than eight years.

But it seems that he may get the chance to follow in the footsteps of Dan James and make Leeds his next club.

AS reports that the Whites want the Spain international and talks are underway. Orta has made contact with his father about a move to Leeds.

The report claims that talks are slow. But AS claims that both sides hope to agree a deal.

There is also interest from Galatasaray and Besiktas. However, the only offer Mata has, so far, received has come from Leeds.

Leeds want Juan Mata

The idea of signing Mata will divide Leeds fans. For many, he is a player that they will want Orta to steer clear of.

He is now into the twilight of his career. And he barely featured last season for a pretty dreadful Manchester United side. Of course, the links with the Reds will put many supporters off immediately.

Having said that, he is available on a free transfer. He has 50 goals and 64 assists in 277 Premier League games. And he has won a raft of honours during his career.

Jamie Carragher once claimed that Mata was one of the most ‘underrated‘ players in the league.

And if he had not spent such a long time at Old Trafford, there probably would be a lot more Leeds fans welcoming the links.

But you would imagine that there is not going to be the best initial reaction should Leeds manage to get a deal done.