Mata: De Gea was important in my decision to join Manchester United

Juan Mata has revealed that David De Gea was a key figure in his move from Chelsea to Manchester United, with the goalkeeper having urged him to sign for the club.

Mata moved to Old Trafford for a club record £37million from their Premier League rivals in the biggest transfer of the January transfer window and has already impressed in a United shirt.

And the Spaniard has claimed that De Gea played a major part in him choosing to move to the reigning Premier League champions, with the keeper having sent him a string of messages coaxing him towards Old Trafford.

Mata said, “David De Gea was important. He was texting me and calling me and wanted me to come here.

“Finally I’m here and I’m glad to be with him. He’s a good guy.”

Mata linked up with his international teammate to become the fourth Spanish player to pull on the famous red shirt, with Ricardo and Gerard Pique the pair to have preceded them.

Mata has made two appearances so far for United since his move and has already claimed two assists.

Only six more goalkeepers have made more saves than the 54 David De Gea has made for United this year, with Cardiff’s David Marshall leading the way with 79.