Nemanja Matic to be rewarded with fresh contract

Premier League leaders Chelsea are prepared to reward a contract extension to Nemanja Matic following his impressive showing during the ongoing campaign.

The Serbia international has combined well alongside N'Golo Kante in midfield in the 3-4-3 setup, and this has helped Chelsea emerge favourites to lift the league title this season.

Matic, 28, had been linked with a proposed move to Juventus prior to the start of the season before incoming coach Antonio Conte convinced him to stay put at Stamford Bridge.

Since then, the Serbian has managed to make himself a regular in the centre of the park with Conte preferring to play him ahead of Cesc Fabregas, who is more renowned for his passing abilities.

While speculation continues to link Matic with a reunion with Jose Mourinho at Manchester United next season, the Blues are willing to open talks over an improved contract in the summer, The Mirror reports.

Matic current deal is due to expire in the summer of 2019, and Conte is keen on committing the player to a long-term contract as he bids to focus on strengthening other departments for the next campaign.

Chelsea currently hold a 10-point gap over second-placed Tottenham Hotspur with just 11 games to go in the season.