Spaniard To Leave Old Trafford If Mesut Ozil Joins Next Summer
REUTERS/Eddie Keogh
Manchester United could end up offloading Juan Mata if they complete the signing of Mesut Ozil next summer, according to reports.
The German international, who is currently in the final year of his Arsenal contract, is expected to leave the Gunners on a free transfer next summer, along with fellow teammate Alexis Sanchez. But whilst the Chilean is expected to join Manchester City, Ozil is likely to make a switch to their cross-town neighbours instead.
The decorated playmaker is believed to be keen on reuniting with former boss Jose Mourinho, as the 28-year-old enjoyed the best years of his career under the Portuguese’s management at Real Madrid. The United boss himself, described Ozil as ‘the best no. 10 in the world’ during their stint in the Spanish capital.
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The pair shares a healthy relationship, and the Old Trafford faithful appear excited at the prospect of seeing the 2014 World Cup winner plying his trade at the Theatre of Dreams. However, Ozil’s move to Manchester risks losing its appeal altogether, as his transfer could lead to the departure of a United fan-favourite.
Reuters / Darren Staples
According to Manchester Evening News, star midfielder Juan Mata could be forcefully offloaded by Mourinho if he brings in Mesut Ozil next summer, as the ex-Chelsea boss is likely to prefer the latter in his starting line-up over the Spanish international.
Ozil, despite primarily being a central attacking midfielder, has been successfully deployed on the right wing by Mourinho, which happens to be the position Mata features in for the Red Devils.
The 29-year-old happens to be in the final year of his United contract as well, and in spite of reports hinting at the club’s decision to activate the one-year extension clause in the Spaniard’s deal, it remains to be seen if Mata remains at the club after having fallen down the pecking order after Ozil’s potential arrival.
Written by Kunal Kambli 
An introverted grammar pedantic who worships football and loves writing about it. Part of the BlameFootball team since 2016.