Report: Atletico Madrid favourites to land Juan Mata

Atletico Madrid are reportedly the favourites to sign Chelsea playmaker Juan Mata.

It is believed that the 25-year-old is keen to depart Stamford Bridge this month in a bid to secure his place in the Spain squad for this summer's World Cup in Brazil.

Manchester United are said to be willing to part with £20m to sign Mata, but Chelsea would prefer to see him link up with a foreign club, according to The People.

As a result, the report claimed that Atletico are in pole position to secure Mata's services, initially on a loan basis until the end of the current campaign.

Mata has made 13 Premier League appearances for the Blues this term, none of which has lasted 90 minutes.