Manchester United boss speaks on Anthony Martial's future

Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho has expressed his desire to keep hold of Anthony Martial on a long-term basis with the club.

The Frenchman has been in stunning form for the Red Devils of late with five goals from five appearances including a strike in the 2-1 comeback win over Bournemouth.

In a report covered by Sky Sports, Mourinho indicated that Martial is approaching his best form at the moment and he would prefer the attacker to extend his contract at Old Trafford.

"When you reach that level or are almost reaching that level is when you become a top player. One thing is a top talent, another thing is a top player. When he is now much closer to becoming a top player, obviously I would like him to stay," he said.

Martial barely started a league game for United in the opening months of the campaign but since October, he has been ever-present for the club across all competitions.

Martial's current deal concludes at the end of the campaign but United have some leverage by the means of an extension clause to prolong his stay for another 12 months.