Why Arsenal MUST pursue this Spanish supremo’s transfer:

So it seems Valencia are resigned to losing Juan Mata if a big money offer is tabled for the Spaniard this summer, according to Los Che boss Unai Emery.

Emery recently told Spanish radio station Cadena Cope:

‘Valencia have to be prepared for a footballer having to leave, either because he is not wanted or because a big club wants to sign him.’

‘We want him to stay and Mata has also expressed his wish to remain at Valencia, but we know that if a big-money offer comes in from any club and it’s good for both the player and the club, it could lead to his exit.’

So, despite earlier claims that the 23-year-old winger is not for sale and that the player himself claimed that he is content with life at the Mestalla, inevitably in football, should a big money offer come in, Valencia (like any club) would consider selling their prized asset.

Undoubtedly, this is great news for all clubs interested in the midfielder, especially for those whose pockets are deep (Manchester City). However, despite City’s powerful financial backing, Arsenal are in with a shot of landing the Spanish international this summer.

It is believed that Mata has a £20 million release clause in his current contract, which should even encourage tight-fisted Arsene Wenger.

Now, if Mata does in fact have a £20 million buy out clause in his contract, then Wenger should look to activate it as quickly as possible. If this buyout clause is in fact just speculation, then I believe Valencia has slapped an asking price of around £22 million, which is still honourable.

In any case, the estimated £20 million valuation for Mata may make the frugal Frenchman feel nauseas, but it would be money well spent in my book.

Mata is a quality player who possesses great technique and skill, and would fit the bill perfectly at Arsenal. His movement would be beneficial to our style of play and would definitely add more class to our squad. In my opinion, the Spaniard is a mix between Samir Nasri and Cesc Fabregas – he can play on the wing, where he can utilize his pace, or sit in the middle of the park and create.

Arsenal may not have the spending power as City do, but we do have the power of persuasion and of course Wenger on our side, who is arguably one, if not, the best in the world at moulding young talent into world beaters.

Anyway, what I’m trying to get at here is – Valencia want a good bid tabled for Mata this summer, why shouldn’t we be the ones to offer it to them.

Regardless of whether Samir Nasri stays or departs, I believe Wenger should acquire Mata at all costs – £20 million isn’t that much is it?

Written by Tony Merakli for Gunnersphere.com. Like what you read? Then follow me on Twitter – http://twitter.com/Gunnersphere

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