Remember when everyone thought Juan Mata was a dead man walking once Manchester United confirmed Jose Mourinho as their new boss?How things have changed.
Having proved himself a key player during the opening months of the season, theMirrorreport that the Spanish midfielder is in line for a new, long-term deal -under the verysame manager who sold himto United when they were both at Chelsea.
This all comes after intense speculation that Mourinho would offload the player soon after he began his new job, so Mata has every right to be very pleased right now.
The Spain star's contract with the Old Trafford giants expires at the end of next season, but apparently talks will soon be under way regarding the 28-year-old extending his deal.
Initially sold to United for£38m while Mourinho wasin his second spell at Stamford Bridge, the Portuguesehas apparently been impressed with theplaymaker's performances. He must be, because Mata is pretty much keeping Wayne Rooney out of the United team at present.
The deal itself is reputed to keep Mata at Old Trafford foranother four years.