Boss Harry Redknapp said: '[Mata] is a player that we like. So do Arsenal and sodo other clubs. I went to watch him when England Under-21 played Spain and I thought he looked fantastic.
'The chairman has been dealing with it so where it is I don't know - I don't deal with them transfers. Iwouldn't want to say that it isn't happening in case we sign him tomorrow and you all say 'thanks Harry', but he's a player we like.'
Spurred on: Redknapp is making no secret of his desire to sign Mata
Arsenal are understood to be prepared topay around ?22million for Mata who could have a straight choice betweenthe North London clubs.
Meanwhile, Tottenham are reportedly lining up a ?10m bid for Lyon midfielder Miralem Pjanic.
The 21-year-old Bosnian star is highly rated in France but his arrival would increase doubts over the long-term future of Luka Modric who is wanted by Chelsea.
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Source: Daily Mail
Source: Daily Mail