Fabrizio Romano, a renowned transfer analyst, claims that the Whites are not yet close to signing the former Spain international.

At the end of the previous season, Mata, 34, became a free agent after failing to extend his contract with Manchester United.

The attacking midfielder believes he still has something to offer some of the biggest clubs in the world, despite the fact that he is getting close to 35 years old.

Where the 34-year-old will play next remains unknown. However, with the midfielder not yet deciding his next destination, if Jesse Marsch is interested, the Whites will need to act quickly in order to get to the front of the queue.

The only real issue the Yorkshire-based club may face could be convincing the Spaniard to move to Elland Road and risk upsetting Manchester United fans given both clubs’ fierce rivalry.