“We gave Mata permission to have a medical with United, it was a good offer” – Mourinho

Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho at his Friday’s news conference, confirmed that Juan Mata is set to join Manchester United.

He said: “Things are going in a good direction. We allow Juan to travel and have the medical with United. Things are really going into a good direction. I think sooner rather than later things will be done.”

On why he decided to allow the Spaniard leave Stamford Bridge, he said: “I think this club is a special club and it cares for people. It is very respectful of its players and especially those who wrote history and Juan is one of these.

“This is a fantastic opportunity for him. Another big club wants him in the country he want to stay in, has made the right offer for him, so, although lots of clubs feel you should not sell to rivals, we are different.

“The player deserves respect and to play and because the offer is right, we allow him to negotiate, but we don’t close the door.”

The former Real Madrid manager, also said that it was good that the 25-year-old was staying in England and wished him well at Old Trafford.

“It is good for Juan, good for the Premier League. The offer is the right offer. Football clubs at this moment are not just football clubs,” he added.

“The important thing is if he really goes, he was fantastic for Chelsea and Chelsea was fantastic for him. We are not afraid he is going there to do very well. We want him to go there and be happy.”