Manchester United planning surprise swap deal with Barcelona involving Juan Mata

Manchester United are reportedly planning an ambitious attempt to sign Barcelona midfielder Philippe Coutinho at the end of the current campaign.

The Brazil international sealed his dream move to the Blaugrana from Liverpool just 12 months ago but reports have indicated that he is unsettled amid his struggles to claim a regular starting role.

Moreover, he has been ineffective in terms of creativity with just two goals in the past 13 appearances and this seems to have urged the Catalans to consider his sale ahead of next season.

According to Mundo Deportivo, United could make a club-record bid for the Brazilian in the summer and they are hoping to reduce the overall transfer value by offering Juan Mata in exchange.

Mata currently has six months remaining on his existing deal which allows Barcelona to discuss a pre-contract, but United remain confident of committing him to an extension in the forthcoming weeks.