• Premier League

Arsenal & Spurs don't compare to Chelsea - Mata

ESPN staff
August 23, 2011
Juan Mata cannot wait to play with Frank Lampard © PA Photos
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Chelsea's latest signing, Juan Mata, says that he has joined the Blues because their sporting ambition was better than that of Arsenal or Tottenham.

Mata, 23, is set to complete his move to Stamford Bridge from Valencia for £26 million after undergoing a medical on Tuesday, and he revealed that some of the other clubs who were interested in signing him ''did not compare" to Roman Abramovich's men.

"I want to come to England to win trophies - and that's why I accepted Chelsea's offer",'' he said. "It was also a question of sporting achievement, not money.

"Arsenal and Tottenham were both interested in me but they did not compare with the Blues. I want the Premier League title and this is possible at Chelsea."

Mata also revealed Chelsea striker Fernando Torres played a part in his decision.

"Fernando Torres helped influence my decision but speaking directly with Villas-Boas was the decisive factor," he added. "He explained how his style will be based on 4-3-3 and how important I will be to his plans.

"Frank Lampard is a monster of a footballer to play alongside and the prospect of that is incredible."

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
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