David Silva

Leeds are reportedly in talks to sign Juan Mata on a free transfer this summer – a player that Frank Lampard once likened to David Silva having played alongside the Spanish veteran at Chelsea. Mata, 34, is without a club after his £160,000-a-week (Spotrac) deal ended at Manchester United earlier this summer. It saw him leave Old Trafford after eight years, after joining the club in 2014, clocking up 285 appearances. Now without a club, the Spain international is looking for a new home.

Spanish reports claim that Leeds are in talks to sign Mata on a free transfer, with Victor Orta heading the negotiations as is the way at Elland Road.

It would be a surprise, not only because he played for Manchester United for eight years. But also because Mata is in his mid-thirties while the rest of the club’s summer signings are 25 or younger. Speaking about Mata back in 2011, now-Everton manager was delighted with the signing of the Spaniard at Stamford Bridge. He even linked Mata to that of Manchester City icon Silva, adding a “lovely dimension”.
Marsch likes a 4-2-3-1 system at Leeds and having a group of young players in and around him. Having Mata in the middle of that, would string everything together. Even, if he does not start week in, week out. Even as a mentor, he would be brilliant for the likes of Brenden Aaronson and Sam Greenwood. Leeds have a young squad and adding a player like Mata into the equation, even if he does not play all the time, would improve Leeds.
New Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag decided against renewing the veteran midfielder's contract at United and while many expected him to retire from playing football and start a career in coaching, it looks like he has other plans.