5 top players who could switch clubs in January

#3 Juan Mata (Manchester United)

Manchester United can end up losing a really loyal player!

This comes after Juan Mata's splendid performance against Leicester City in the last weekend. But truth be told and so it is...

Jose Mourinho made it quite clear in his first ever presser as a Manchester United manager that he would prefer building a team from the scratch. He was apparently unhappy with his predecessors' transfer activities.

Jose has been known to make decisions his way and consequently, the gaffer does not fear to make bold decisions. The sale of Juan Mata from Chelsea, in the winter of 2014 was a clear indication of this opinion.

Mata was arguably the best Chelsea player in the two seasons prior to his departure from Stamford Bridge. So, when the Portuguese boss arrived at Old Trafford ahead of last season, many expected Mata to be shown the exit door.

However, under Mourinho, Mata somewhat rediscovered himself and did a decent job last season. However, he has never been played in his preferred position behind the striker. Mata brings in a sense of creativity to the final third.

This season, he has struggled to make the required impact from the wings this season. Moreover, Jose seems to be realizing that to challenge for the top honors, he needs to have better talent and younger players at his disposal.

Mata's drawbacks are too evident these days. He lacks the pace to trouble the opposition's fullbacks and is not the best when it comes to taking on defenders too. His lack of upper body strength means the opposition have found out a way to bully the Spaniard in their half.

However, the player has been a great servant for Manchester United and the fans would be devastated to see him leave the team. His amazing work-ethic has made him a favorite among the Old Trafford faithful.

If he were to leave, then the most likely destination would be Inter Milan. Milan has found it difficult to find a leader in attack and Mata could guide their youngsters well.

Another thing that adds speculation about Mata's exit is the fact that his contract is expiring at the end of this season. United have not held any renewal talks with him and it would be interesting to see where Juan Mata ends up at the end of this season.