Chelsea ready fresh contract for Cesc Fabregas amid Manchester United link

Premier League holders Chelsea are planning to tie down Cesc Fabregas to a fresh contract as they look to ward off interest from Jose Mourinho's Manchester United.

The Spain international's future had come into question during Antonio Conte's first season in charge last term, where he made just 13 Premier League starts.

However, his situation has vastly improved in the current campaign with Conte opting to play him in an advanced midfield role - before slotting into a central position in N'Golo Kante's injury absence.

According to The Times, Mourinho is weighing up a potential reunion with the Spaniard, whom he recruited for Chelsea from Barcelona in the summer of 2014.

Amid the concerns, the Blues have begun talks over a 12-month extension with Fabregas, although the playmaker is said to want at least two additional years on his deal.

The report adds that Arsenal's Mesut Ozil is the prime target on Mourinho's shortlist for next summer, but Fabregas is still an option with his contract expiring in less than two years' time.

Mourinho has already benefited from his ex-club this season having pursued the services of Nemanja Matic, who has stood up with his performances in midfield.