If AFC retain both May and Moreno and don’t use one of their import spots on a number 9 and Mata is not signed, then he really looks as the obvious candidate for next season.
It could likely happen.
It could likely happen.
Why would Auckland FC sign Waine ahead of Mata?
Mata is doing well with the Black Knights, offers a point of difference with his height and combines with May.
Mata's deal with parent club Shrewsbury expires June next year. But they are last in L1, and likely to be relegated to L2. 11 pts from safety. Mata's spell their last season was an unhappy one, so why would he want to return to them (even if they wanted him).
He's likely happy at Auckland, and his form there has got him back into World Cup contention. I'd say he would have been picked ahead of Waine this month if not injured. Next striker cab off the rank at AFC Jonty Bidois, I think has a future in the ALM.
With Welly boy Waine I'd say it's either a Nix return (knows the club, and they would welcome him) or trying out L2/National League.