Manchester United manager Louis van Gaal has made a surprise change in his opinion over the future of star Juan Mata, with the player now expected to stay at the club, despite suggestions that he would move on in January, as reported by the Daily Star.
Juventus had been heavily linked with a move for the midfield maestro, although there were also suggestions that Van Gaal was keen to use Mata as a possible makeweight in the intended move for Kevin Strootman, with a move to Roma therefore a possibility.
The Old Lady of Turin were thought to be willing to pay £24 million for the Spain international, a significant fall on the record breaking fee Man Utd paid to bring him to Old Trafford, but now Van Gaal is unwilling to let him depart as a result of his spectacular start to the new season.
Competition for places is still fierce at the club, and Mata will have to perform to keep his space in the side.
