Matic could earn new United contract with strong performances

Manchester United are reportedly willing to give Nemanja Matic an improved two-year deal if he keeps up his performance standards.

The Red Devils triggered their one-year extension option earlier this week, as predicted, to ensure the veteran midfielder would not be able to quit Old Trafford for free this summer.

Matic was heading for the exit door until midfielder Scott McTominay got injured over the Christmas period, giving boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer little option but to bring the 31-year-old back in from the cold.

The former Chelsea enforcer had only started two Premier League games before the festive period, with Italian giants Inter Milan speaking to his representatives about a possible switch to the San Siro.

Matic, however, has been pivotal in United remaining unbeaten in their last 10 games, claiming big wins against Manchester City, Chelsea and Wolverhampton Wanderers.

It's understood Solskjaer has spoken personally to the player and promised a new deal will be on the table early in the new year, including a hike in salary, should he keep producing the goods on the pitch.

Matic earns around £160 000-per-week and club insiders have revealed he is 'more than open' to the idea of his remaining peak years being in Manchester, such is his current contentment working under Solskjaer.

He revealed last month how the Norwegian is now winning hearts and minds at the Theatre of Dreams.

Matic said: "He is a much better manager (Solskjaer) than he was a year ago in my opinion, because now he knows our players, he knows exactly what he needs to do before the game and after the game. I think for his job, the experience is very important."

- TEAMtalk media