Manchester United 'to start Juan Mata contract talks'

Manchester United midfielder Juan Mata is congratulated by manager Jose Mourinho during his side's Premier League clash with Arsenal at Old Trafford on November 19, 2016
© SilverHub
A report claims that Manchester United will soon open talks with Spanish midfielder Mata over a new contract.

Manchester United are reportedly preparing to open contract talks with Spaniard Juan Mata.

The 28-year-old's current deal will expire at the end of next season, but it is understood that the Red Devils can activate a 12-month extension to take him through to the summer of 2019.

That said, according to The Sun, Jose Mourinho wants to tie the Spain international to a fresh long-term deal after being impressed with his application at Old Trafford this season.

It had initially been thought that Mata would be moved on when Mourinho took control of first-team affairs, but the attacker has developed into a key player for the Portuguese and captained the side in Sunday's 1-1 draw with West Ham United.

Mata has scored five times and provided one assist in 17 appearances for Man United this season.

Victor Lindelof during the international friendly between Sweden and Czech Republic at Friends Arena on March 29, 2016
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6Manchester UnitedMan Utd135531815320
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19Swansea CitySwansea132381626-109
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