Transfer Centre

Report: Barcelona eye Juan Mata bid

By Michael Penkman, Reporter | 12 September 2013

Reports suggest that Barcelona will make a move for Juan Mata in January, although Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho may refuse to do business with the Catalan giants.

Barcelona are believed to be preparing a January raid for Chelsea midfielder Juan Mata.

The 25-year-old's future at Stamford Bridge has come under scrutiny since the arrival of Jose Mourinho, who has left the Spaniard on the bench in two of the Blues' three Premier League matches this season.

Mata has expressed his desire to stay at the club despite reports of unrest, which has been echoed by the Portuguese coach.

However, Mundo Deportivo claim that the Catalan giants are lining up a bid for the former Valencia star, although the Spanish newspaper also reports that Mourinho may refuse to do business with Blaugrana.

The 50-year-old is thought to hold a grudge against the Spanish champions after numerous run-ins with them during spells at Inter Milan and Real Madrid, as well as his first stint in West London.

Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur have also been linked with moves for the Spanish international, who is vying for a spot in Vicente Del Bosque's squad at next year's World Cup in Brazil.