Roma plot audacious move for Manchester United midfielder

Roma have made Manchester Untied ace Juan Mata a potential transfer target as their extensive search for a new wideman continues, claims Corriere dello Sport, via Calciomercato.

The Serie A giants have already made failed attempts to sign Leicester winger Riyad Mahrez and Real Madrid forward Lucas Vazquez and Monchi, the club’s sporting director, is weighing up their new move.

Mata has entered the final 12 months of his existing deal at Old Trafford but the Spain international has developed into an important player for Jose Mourinho.

The Spain international was expected to leave United when Mourinho was appointed the club’s new manager over a year ago, but he has arguably been one of the Mourinho’s best attacking options in that time.

Roma may struggle to match United’s asking price as well as Mata’s wage demands, but they have the 29-year-old in their thoughts if they fail to make a breakthrough for Mahrez or Vazquez.

Since joining United in January 2014 only Wayne Rooney (50) has played a direct hand in more Premier League goals than Mata (43).