Man United transfers: Juan Mata perfect for Red Devils, says Andy Cole

Andy Cole believes Chelsea midfielder Juan Mata is “what Manchester United need right now” as speculation increases over a big-money move to Old Trafford.

The Red Devils have been linked with a club-record £40m swoop for the Spain playmaker, who has made just 11 Premier League starts under Jose Mourinho this season.

He’s very creative and I think that’s what Manchester United need right now – some creativite

Andy Cole

Mata, who has won the Champions League and Europa League since moving to Chelsea from Valencia in 2011, scored 20 goals and made 35 assists last season.

And former United striker Cole said Mata would be a “fantastic” signing for the defending champions, who are currently 14 points behind leaders Arsenal.

“Jose Mourinho has made his decision why he’s not in the team so if he did come to Manchester United I think he’d be a fantastic player for them,” the ex-England international told Sky Sports News.

“He’s proved his intelligence, not just with Chelsea but also for the national team. He’s a quality player with all the attributes. He’s very creative and I think that’s what Manchester United need right now – some creativity.”