This article is part of Football FanCast's Pundit View series, which provides opinion and analysis on recent quotes from journalists, pundits, players and managers...

According to Italian publication Calciomercatonews, Milan are interested in making a swoop for Manchester United midfielder Juan Mata.

What's the word?

The Spain international has featured prominently for the Red Devils this season, making ten appearances across all competitions. However, his form for Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's side has been rather underwhelming, and the 31-year-old has yet to provide a single goal or assist.

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Now, Calciomercatonews claim Milan feel Mata can help reinforce their existing midfield options, and would add some quality and experience to their side. The report claims the Spaniard would not have any problem in leaving Manchester, particularly in light of suggestions the club are preparing a move for Barcelona man Ivan Rakitic.

Experience

Mata has been a great Premier League servant in his time at both Chelsea and now United, but it appears his career is on the decline. Compared to his numbers last season in the top-flight, the play-maker averages less shots (0.6), key passes (0.7), and dribbles (0.1) per game. So perhaps based on those figures alone, the Red Devils may understandably lean towards cashing in on the £37.1m man.

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But, scratch beneath the surface, and it becomes clearer why Solskjaer cannot allow Mata to leave anytime soon. In a fairly young squad, the 31-year-old represents a rare, experienced voice in the dressing room. Speaking after the announcement of a new contract back in June, the United boss delivered a reminder of what the midfielder brings to the table off-the-pitch.

"Juan is the ultimate professional and one of the most intelligent players I have worked with. He is a great example to our younger players in his approach. We have some fantastic young players here and I know that Juan’s vast experience will help them to reach their potential over the coming seasons. I know that his talent and mentality will be invaluable to the squad."

At a time of immense difficulty like the one United are currently facing, they need all the level-headed players they  can get. Mata is one of those whose long career in the game will be of enormous help to the likes of Marcus Rashford, Scott McTominay and Mason Greenwood. They haven't experienced such tests like this before. The Spaniard has however, and that should make all the difference when it comes to snubbing Milan's reported interest.