Manchester United propose new contract for Spanish midfielder

Manchester United have reportedly shown the eagerness to extend the contract of midfielder Juan Mata with his existing deal due to expire in three weeks' time.

The Spain international recently concluded his fifth campaign with the Red Devils where he made 20 starts and 11 substitute appearances in all competitions.

Despite this, Mata has shown a reluctance to extend his contract with United not keen on offering him more than a year's deal but the club still remain optimistic of prolonging his stay.

According to The Sun, United are planning fresh discussions with the agent and father of Mata with Ole Gunnar Solskjaer said to value the midfielder irrespective of his squad player status.

Mata is said to have received contract packages from both Newcastle United and Barcelona and the latter are understood to have offered him a lucrative three-year deal to make a La Liga comeback.

The former Chelsea man has racked over 200 appearances during his time with the Red Devils, though his influence from the starting XI has drastically reduced in the past few years.