Manchester United plots Mata swoop

Manchester United are trying to prise Juan Mata from Chelsea for £37 million but it looks more likely that the Spain international will head to Diego Simeone's Atletico Madrid on loan.

David Moyes is prepared to break the club's transfer record in an attempt to sign the player, who is willing to move so he can boost his World Cup hopes

Chelsea were on Monday night braced for a possible bid for Juan Mata from Manchester United.

A deal, which would break United’s transfer record, has been discussed with intermediaries. United would have to offer around £37 million for the 25-year-old Spain international in the hope of pushing a deal through.

United sources insisted on Monday night that no bid had been made but it is understood that the club do admire Mata and might consider a move.

Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho has stated that he does not want Mata, who has been linked to a host of clubs throughout Europe, to leave this month but it is understood the midfielder does now want to go.

Mata has dropped down the pecking order at Chelsea with Mourinho having decided that Oscar, Eden Hazard and Willian will form his attacking trio behind a central striker.