According to The Times, Manchester United are ready to stump up the required £37 million to sign Chelsea playmaker Juan Mata. Blues coach Jose Mourino has sanctioned the sale of Mata, who has not featured since the victory over Southampton on January 1.

There have been reports that indicate a move for Mata will be imminent as he did not train with the Blues yesterday or the day before that. With United willing to break their transfer record to land the Spanish maestro, a deal looks likely to happen since it benefits all parties. Mata’s arrival will reinforce the Red Devils for their clashes against Arsenal and Manchester City, which can only benefit Mourinho’s men.

However, Mata’s arrival will not be enough to persuade Rooney to stay as he unwilling to sign a new contract. The 28-year-old looks likely to leave in the summer with Real Madrid interested in the prolific forward.

The English international has doubts over United’s long-term ambitions and the team’s current woe will only add to his belief that a change of clubs would be the right move for him once the World Cup is over.

Although United are not contemplating selling Rooney to Chelsea, even in part exchange for Mata, a summer move abroad looks likely as United would want to cash in with only a year left on his contract in the summer.