United make Mata inquiry

Manchester United have made an informal inquiry to Chelsea about the possibility of signing Juan Mata, ESPN understands.

However, it remains unclear whether the contact is part of the on-going Wayne Rooney transfer saga, amid rumours that the two players could swap clubs.

Jose Mourinho is still keen on securing a deal for Rooney before the transfer window closes, while David Moyes is also desperate to make a marquee singing having so far failed to land any of his top targets.

Mata was left out of the Blues opening day victory over Hull City, but started the win over Aston Villa three days later.

The Spain international has been named Chelsea’s player of the year in both of his seasons with the club, though with a plethora of players in his position at the club could be allowed to make way, despite the Blues boss denying that he is actively trying to move him on.