Manchester United Transfer Rumours: Red Devils Deny Bid for Chelsea's Juan Mata

It hasn’t exactly been a season to remember for Manchester United thus far, but rampant rumors linking the Red Devils with Chelsea’s Juan Mata had some fans hopeful that help could be on the way.

However, Manchester United denied making any type of bid for the talented midfielder, per a report from Ed Malyon of The Mirror. Considering the injuries that have piled up for the Red Devils, adding some depth at the midfield position certainly would have helped moving forward.

The rumors linking the club to Mata had a £37 million price tag connected to the Chelsea player, which would have broken United’s all-time transfer record.

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There is some good news on the horizon for the Red Devils, though, even if they are denying a bid to land Mata. Both Wayne Rooney and Robin van Persie appear to be making strides toward returning from their injuries, which would provide a critical boost in the goal-scoring department.

Manchester United had trouble on the offensive end in their Jan. 19 loss to Chelsea (3-1) and are currently sitting in a disappointing seventh place in the English Premier League table. Fourteen points separate the Red Devils from Arsenal, who currently lead the standings by a narrow one-point margin.

As for Mata, the primary reason there are rumors surrounding his departure from Chelsea is the fact that he has seen a dip in playing time recently with others playing well. Jason Burt of The Telegraph breaks down the situation:

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Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho has stated that he does not want Mata, who has been linked to a host of clubs throughout Europe, to leave this month but it is understood the midfielder does now want to go.

Mata has dropped down the pecking order at Chelsea with Mourinho having decided that Oscar, Eden Hazard and Willian will form his attacking trio behind a central striker.

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While Manchester United have denied the bid for the time being, don't be surprised if they show interest in the near future.