Manchester United have triggered a clause to extend Juan Mata's contract by one year to the end of the 2018-19 season.
The Spaniard's deal was due to expire at end of the current campaign, but the Red Devils have opted to activate their option to prolong his stay by a further 12 months.
United boss Jose Mourinho, who sold Mata to United from Chelsea in January 2014, spoke of his player's importance to the team at a press conference on Tuesday.
"Mata is very important," the Portuguese said.
"When I arrived one-and-a-half years ago, [they said], 'Mata is in trouble, in trouble, in trouble', and now he's getting an extension of one more year.
"An important player for me; important player for the club; important player for the other players."
More to follow.
