http://blogs.as.com/matallanas/2011/08/el-valencia-frena-una-ofensiva-del-chelsea-por-mata.html
Can't be bothered to translate, but basically saying that we got in contact with his agent last week because avb wants him. Hope it's true
Mata
posted on 13/8/11
'Not at Tottenham and Arsenal. Tottenham Hotspur offered 23 million euros for international Juan Mata and preferred to stay in Valencia. Arsenal had also bid, which was persuaded by the model, but neither wanted to leave. Therefore, Manuel Llorente, has again improved the contract, making a great economic effort, and assures that the next season, if you receive an offer to his liking, will sell. But a week ago, Chelsea contacted his father and agent because he wants to sign Vilas Boas. Mata is at home in Valencia and will stay. Unless you pull the checkbook Roman Abramovich...
posted on 13/8/11
*Translated the first paragraph from Spanish to English*
posted on 13/8/11
I'm pretty sure if Valencia were offered around 28 million, they would accept
posted on 13/8/11
Not gunna read to much into this but if true id be delighted
posted on 13/8/11
Hopefully it's true
Hopefully we could offer Malouda in part exchange
posted on 13/8/11
They would want £30 million now and there are better player's we could get for that amount.
posted on 13/8/11
We should have signed N´Zogbia when we had the chance.
He´s just as good if not better than all these wingers we´ve been linked with and is Premiership-proven. Not to mention half the price.
posted on 13/8/11
They would want £30 million now and there are better player's we could get for that amount.
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Like who? There are possible targets out there who would be an improvement on Malouda/Kalou/Anelka (although that's not asking much) but none I can think of are on Mata's level
posted on 13/8/11
I wouldn't say N'Zog is better than Mata or Hazard but he's a good winger
posted on 13/8/11
Hazard is better than Mata. Can't think of much else tgiugh