Report: Juventus scouts watch Juan Mata, Erik Lamela

Manchester United's Juan Mata and Tottenham Hotspur's Erik Lamela have apparently been watched by Juventus over the Christmas period.

Italian publication Gazetta dello Sport claims that Juve CEO Beppe Marotta, sporting director Fabio Paratici and manager Massimiliano Allegri have all used holidays in the United Kingdom to mask their scouting missions.

Lamela has been used more prominently by Mauricio Pochettino this season, having barely featured for Spurs during a disastrous debut campaign, but continues to be linked with a return to Serie A.

The Old Lady, Napoli and former club Roma are all believed to be monitoring the happiness of the Argentine, who cost Spurs £30m and is unlikely to be sold as they desperately hope for a return on their investment.

Mata is also believed to be a Juventus target as they seek extra quality in attacking midfield positions.

The Spaniard's future at Old Trafford was questioned soon after Louis van Gaal's appointment as manager in the summer, but he has scored five goals in 17 top-flight appearances for United this season.