JUAN MATA looks to have found a new club.
The former Manchester United playmaker, 36, has been out of work since leaving Vissel Kobe in January.
He said at the time that he was not ready to hang up his boots.
And Mata is closing in on a return to the field.
He was pictured with former Chelsea team-mate Michael Essien, currently the assistant manager at FC Nordsjaelland.
Spaniard Mata has been training with the Danish outfit as he looks to earn a contract.
Mata joined Vissel in September to boost their J.League title hopes.
He played just once but was involved as they secured the crown.
The maestro enjoyed his time in Japan, posting on Instagram: “Thank you very much to all my team-mates and all the people who are part of Vissel Kobe for these unique months with you.
“It has been an incredibly interesting experience that ended in the best possible way, making history, winning the league for the first time for our club.
“I’m really happy to have been part of your family at such an important moment that will be remembered forever! I wish you all the very best for the future!
“Of course, thank you very much to our fans, you are my most special memory of these months, and I will keep your love and respect with me forever. Incredible people, incredible culture. I’ve learned so much from you.
“I’m looking forward to continuing enjoying football somewhere else, and hopefully to keep winning trophies, let the streak continue!”
Mata's last gig was as a BBC pundit for England's defeat to Spain in the Euro 2024 final.
He played 278 times for Chelsea and United during his Premier League career.
MAN UTD TRANSFER NEWS LIVE: All the latest deals and rumours from Old Trafford