Juan Mata could be forced out if Man United sign Arsenal star

Manchester United have been closely linked with a move for Arsenal star Mesut Ozil over recent weeks.

Ozil is likely to leave the Gunners at the end of the season as he has under 12 months remaining on his contract but has yet to sign a new deal.

Should Ozil join United it could mean Juan Mata leaves according to the MEN.

Per the source, Mata may end up being the fall guy if the playmaker of Turkish origin moves to United.

See More: ‘If Mesut Ozil is allowed to join Man Utd I’m swapping clubs’ – Arsenal fans react to reports star playmaker could join Premier League rivals

The Red Devils could probable have to get rid of a player to accommodate Ozil.

Ozil is a No 10 and most comfortable playing centrally but United boss Jose Mourinho did also get the best out of him in wide positions during his time at Real Madrid.

Mourinho did of course sign Ozil while he was in charge of Real, describing the 2014 World Cup winner as being ‘the best No 10 in the world’.

Ozil was at his best under Mourinho and the Portuguese manager is a long term admirer of the Arsenal star.

Arsenal look unlikely to keep hold of Ozil next season but losing him to United would be difficult to stomach after what happened with Robin van Persie.

The current Fenerbahce striker left Arsenal for United in 2012 and went onto play a key role in the Red Devils lifting the league title for an unprecedented 20th time.