Manchester United could be forced to let Juan Mata join Juventus in January.
Spanish star Mata's contract runs out at the end of the season with the Red Devils yet to offer him a new contract.
Mata will be allowed to speak to non-Premier League clubs from January as he would have entered the last six months of his agreement.
And Italian champions Juve are looking to steal another bargain - after luring Patrice Evra, Sami Khedira, Dani Alves and Emre Can to Turin on cheap deals.
According to the Evening Standard, Mata is hoping the Juve interest could force United to panic and offer him a new deal.
United boss Jose Mourinho has been pushing to offer Mata, and fellow calming dressing room influence Ander Herrera, new contracts in recent weeks but nothing has materialised.
Mata's situation could interest clubs in the MLS and China - but the 30-year-old believes he is too young to give up on top European football.
A return to former clubs Valencia and Real Oviedo have been mooted and would prick Mata's ears.
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