Rumour: Real Madrid look to snatch Chelsea's forgotten midfield genius

According to the Daily Express, reports in Spain suggest Juan Mata is aReal Madrid target to replace Angel Di Maria, who looks likely to leave the club this month.

Mata, 25, has been a peripheral figure at Chelsea this season as Jose Mourinho has preferred Oscar to the Spaniard. Due to his lack of chances at Chelsea, it seems Mata may leave the club where he has won the FA Cup, Champions League and Europa League.

The Spanish midfielder opened up the possibility of a move after kicking up a bit of storm after being substituted during Chelsea’s 3-0 win over Southampton on New Year’s Day.

Meanwhile, Di Maria may be set to leave Madrid after his antics at the club sinceGareth Bale‘s arrival have made things difficult. He seems to have gone even further after appearing to grab his crotch in disgust at the treatment he was receiving from Madrid’s fans inside the Santiago Bernabeu.

Manchester United and Arsenal were said to be interested in the Argentine winger but it seems that French side, Monaco are closest to signing Di Maria. It is thought that the French side are willing to pay the £20 million price-tag that Real Madrid demand.

Juan Mata has created 30 chances, getting two assists. He has created more chances than Iniesta, who has carved out 19 chances.