Manchester United plan contract discussions with Spanish midfielder

Manchester United are reportedly prepared to hold discussions with midfielder Juan Mata regarding a new long-term contract with the club.

The Spaniard has spent the past five years with the Mancunian giants but his near future remains a concern with his contract expiring in six months' time.

According to The Sun, talks are scheduled between Mata's agent and the hierarchy and the club are optimistic of securing his services on a fresh deal beyond the current season.

Mata has earned regular gametime under interim boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer and he has started in three of the six matches in which the Norwegian has been in charge.

There had recently been suggestions that United could offload the midfielder on a cut-price deal this month but that no longer seems the case with the club valuing his experience both on and off the playing field.

United are scheduled to face Brighton & Hove Albion at Old Trafford in the Premier League this afternoon. They are currently on a six-match winning run across all competitions.