North London giants Arsenal have reportedly been linked with a surprise move for Manchester United midfielder Juan Manuel Mata.
According to an exclusive report from popular English news outlet Daily Star, new Arsenal manager Unai Emery is a big admirer of the 30-year-old and the Spanish tactician could make a move for him at the end of his Manchester United contract next summer.
Juan Mata has less than a year left on his current contract with the Red Devils though widespread media reports claimed that the club is ready to stay beyond the next summer which is when his present deal expires.
The Spanish international playmaker was a regular fixture under Unai Emery when he was the Valencia manager.
He played under him between 2008 and 2011 before sealing a move to Premier League side Chelsea in 2011.
Juan Manuel Mata has been a big part of the recent renaissance enjoyed by Manchester United in the last two league fixtures.
With his side trailing 2-0 to Newcastle United just before the international break, Mata scored a 70th freekick as a substitute to reduce the deficit for his side and spark a revival.
Anthony Martial and substitute Alexis Sanchez later scored to give the Red Devils a 3-2 win.
Mata was also instrumental in the last league game, a 2-2 draw at Chelsea.