Pranav Nair
Player News: Juan Mata set for one-year Manchester United extension
According to news from the Daily Star, Manchester United are set to offer veteran midfielder Juan Mata a one-year extension on his current deal.
The 32-year-old’s current deal expires in June and he was expected to leave the club. However, it would now appear that he still has time left at the Theatre of Dreams.
Not a young player anymore, age is catching up with the Spanish international. He is not a major part of Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s plans and can be considered expendable by the club.
United have decided to trigger the one-year extension option in the player’s deal. Despite his dwindling influence, the club can still demand around £5m for the player.
The ex-Chelsea playmaker cost the Red Devils £31.2m in January 2014. He is settled in Manchester and has business interests including owning a restaurant.
Mata continues to be a hugely liked and respected figure inside the Old Trafford dressing room. United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is also keen to retain his services.
A shrewd short term deal?
Speaking to the press last season, Mata admitted he is keen to stay on at the club. Having the experienced playmaker around would give United more options throughout the course of a season.
“I don’t want to stop here, I want to keep going and going, and keep adding games in a United shirt.”
The Red Devils need to strengthen multiple positions this summer. With money not freely available, funds will need to be raised through sales. However, with money at a premium, maybe it is a safer bet to make use of the player for another year.
More Manchester United News
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- Solskjaer heaps praise on ever-improving Manchester United star Aaron Wan-Bissaka
Mata has so far made 267 appearances for the club so far. He has since scored 50 goals and 47 assists. (h/t Transfermarkt)
