Spus Transfers: 5 January Replacements For Erik Lamela

By Joseph Dempsey /

5. Juan Mata

Juan Mata is on the fringes at current club Chelsea, and has endured a truly torrid time of things since the return of Jose Mourinho. The self-styled 'Special One' prefers Oscar and Eden Hazard in his midfield, leaving Mata jettisoned on the bench having made just 13 league appearances this season, the majority as a substitute. As such, rumours have surfaced that the Spain star is looking for a move this month, and though Atletico Madrid are favourites to land his services, Spurs are reportedly interested. Mata was voted Chelsea Player of the Year for 2011€“12 and 2012€“13 but is clearly unwanted by the Blues, and though a move to London rivals Tottenham is unlikely, it's worth a punt. Mata scored 12 Premier League goals last season and 20 overall, and the attacking midfielder would be an ideal (though admittedly idealistic) replacement for Erik Lamela at White Hart Lane.