Manchester United Star Juan Mata Backs Diego Costa Move To Chelsea

Manchester United and former Chelsea playmaker Juan Mata believes his Spanish team-mate Diego Costa "is very well suited to English football" and "will thrive" at Stamford Bridge next season.

Atletico Madrid striker Costa is on the verge of completing a move to West London after reportedly passing his medical with Jose Mourinho's side – with the Blues agreeing to meet his £32m release clause to complete the deal.

The striker was this season the La Liga champions' standout player with 27 goals in 35 league appearances and is expected to meet Mourinho's demands up front next season.

Mata, who played two and a half seasons at Stamford Bridge before completing a January £37.5m move to Old Trafford, has backed his compatriot to adapt to the Premier League.

"I don't know if it's been confirmed yet; I don't think so. I wish him the best. He's a forward who is very well suited to English football because of his power and strength. He's the type of player that thrives there, but he's still an Atlético player," Mata said in Spanish newspaper AS.

Meanwhile, Mata expressed his happiness about being named in Vicente Del Bosque's 23-man World Cup squad.

"I'm over the moon and very proud to have been to two Confederations Cups, a World Cup and a European Championship. And now I'm getting ready to experience another World Cup," said Mata.

"I'm proud to be part of the most historic period in our national team's history. I'm raring to contribute and to keep enjoying this moment. Here's hoping we keep making history."

After being frozen out by Jose Mourinho at Chelsea during the first part of the season there were initially some doubts about whether the Spanish maestro would even make the trip to Brazil.