Juan Mata is in line to earn a one-year contract extension at Manchester United despite limited game time at the club.
The Spanish midfielder has been at Old Trafford since January 2014 when David Moyes bought him from Chelsea for a then club-record fee of £37.1million.
The 32-year-old was a regular in his first few years at United and even played 37 times last season, but he's seen his opportunities diminish this season, playing just 12 times across all competitions.
He was expected to be released on a free transfer, but according to the Daily Star, United have decided to trigger a one-year extension that will allow them to sell him, with the Spaniard believed to be valued at around £5million.
It's a situation that works for both club and player. Mata is thought to be a highly respected and experienced player in the dressing room, and he has business interests in Manchester, including owning a restaurant.
It means Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's juggling act will continue in an already packed midfield. Donny van de Beek has only started twice in the league this season, while Jesse Lingard will be looking to force his way back in to the side after his recent form for West Ham.
ishti
252
One of my favourite non City player. He was class in his prime and very very humble and grounded. In these age of pompous show off era here is a player who is level headed and practical. Hard to hate him.
Footballgenius17
119
Mata is very important to United, he has become old, fatigued and slow. He became lowest in the pecking order. Still he decides to stay and help the youngsters grow, to impart his experience. I feel proud of myself to call a JUAN MATA fan.