Arsene Wenger has expressed his liking for Chelsea's Juan Mata

Juan Mata

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has expressed his liking for Chelsea‘s play-maker Juan Mata.

As per Sky Sports report, Wenger said: “I like him. I watched the game last night and I’ve heard, like you, Juan Mata could be on the market.

“There is anyway in England a reluctance to sell to each other.”

Mata’s future has been the subject of speculation throughout the summer. He was linked with a move to Manchester United as part of Chelsea’s bid to try to sign Wayne Rooney.

The Spanish midfielder’s omission from the Chelsea team which drew 0-0 at Old Trafford on Monday night aggravated rumours that he could be sold before the transfer window closes.

Chelsea’s impending signing of Willian will increase competition for places in the midfield.

Mourinho spoke about the transfer speculation saying: “He is very important for me and very important for Chelsea.

“The stories that are coming out are nonsense stories. He goes nowhere.”

New reports have also claimed that Tottenham Hotspur may bid for Mata if Gareth Bale moves on, while Atletico Madrid have also shown interest in the 25-year-old midfielder.

Atletico president Enrique Cerezo was quoted as saying: “Mata is a good player but he’s playing in the Premier League and over there they pay a lot.”