Chelsea's Juan Mata linked with Arsenal and Atletico Madrid as rumours grow

Juan Mata has been linked with a move away from Stamford Bridge. (Getty Images)

‘Which Chelsea player should be sold?’ – If you Chelsea fans this very question last season, Juan Mata will probably be the last name on the list. In fact, many would not even have him on the list of players to sell. Mata has been at Chelsea for only two years, but he has already established himself at the top the pile. It is rare to find such a quality player, who is also a great professional.

Jose Mourinho dismissed the Mata transfer rumours after the Manchester United match, but one should not be surprised if he is sold before the transfer window closes on September 2.

“He is very important for me and very important for Chelsea. The stories that are coming out are nonsense stories. He goes nowhere.” – Mourinho

There is no smoke without fire, as Arsenal, Tottenham Hotspur and Atletico Madrid are showing keen interest in him. Arsenal were very close to signing him two years ago before Chelsea came in and snatched him. Arsene Wenger, who is desperate for players, appears to be keen on reviving Arsenal’s interest in Mata. Wenger said to Sky Sports:

“I like him. I watched the game last night and I’ve heard, like you, Juan Mata could be on the market.”

Atletico Madrid President Enrique Cerezo choose to remain silent about bringing Mata back Spain. Atletico brought in Spanish star David Villa in the summer and they can also offer Champions League football this season.

“Mata is a good player. But he is in the Premier League and over there they are paid a lot.

“We have a fantastic squad and right now I do not know if the coach is ­planning to bring in anyone else or not, but even so, we have seven days.” – Enrique Cerezo

It would have been easy to believe a few weeks ago when Mourinho said that Mata was not for sale. The arrival of Willian, though, significantly alters the situation. Mata could leave at least on a loan deal. If it happens, Mourinho and Chelsea will look daft in the eyes of many.