Spanish side Espanyol are reportedly keeping tabs on the Juan Mata situation at Old Trafford, according to the Mirror.
The report goes on to claim that the Barcelona-based club would be keen to offer the Spaniard a return to his homeland if he does not figure in Jose Mourinho’s plans this upcoming season.
Given the history between Mata and Mourinho, many clubs, including Premier League side Everton, have been put on alert since the Portuguese manager returned to England in May.
The 28-year-old enjoyed a mixed season under Louis van Gaal, during which he scored 6 goals and served up 5 assists in 34 league appearances.
Mata’s failure to be included in Spain’s squad for Euro 2016 form stemmed from the midfielder’s inconsistent form, so he was available for selection in United’s 2-0 preseason win over Wigan Athletic while others were still on vacation.
Will Keane would go on and score the opener in the comfortable win at the DW Stadium but it was perfectly teed-up pass from Mata that set the young Englishman up.
Mata, above all, has been heavily linked with a move away from Old Trafford and unless he can go on and really impress Mourinho this preseason, he will be the unlucky one to be axed twice by the ‘Special One.’
