Juan Mata is going to join Arsenal on a free transfer at the end of the season, according to Adrian Durham of talkSPORT.

Durham took a very brief break from baiting Arsenal fans by slagging off their players to baiting Arsenal fans by claiming to have inside transfer news this week.

The radio host told his listeners on talkSPORT that his sources at the Emirates Stadium have informed him that Mata will join Arsenal at the end of the season, after his Manchester United contract comes to an end. Durham admitted the news wasn’t official, but seemed pretty defiant that it would happen.

Personally, I wouldn’t put any faith whatsoever in a single word that Durham says. However, this is a story that could end up having something to it, as he’s not the only one reporting it.

Last month, reports emerged that Arsenal are considering a move for the playmaker, with Emery reportedly a ‘big admirer’. The two previously worked together at Valencia.

Mata has lived in London before, whilst playing for Chelsea, and his expiring contract means Arsenal could keep transfer fee costs low. With Aaron Ramsey leaving, the Gunners do need some creativity in midfield.

It’s a transfer that makes some sense, though perhaps that’s the only reason these outlets are reporting it. Rather than having any actual inside information, it’s possible they’re just taking a guess based solely on Mata’s contract and history with Emery. We’ll have to wait and see.