Mata hopes ´positive´ Pogba remains at Man Utd

Manchester United midfielder Juan Mata hopes Paul Pogba remains at Old Trafford next season and rubbished suggestions the Frenchman could be a disruptive influence if he is not allowed to move.

Pogba has publicly stated his wish for a "new challenge," amidst interest from Real Madrid.

The World Cup winner´s agent Mino Raiola also told The Times earlier this month that "everyone knows the willingness of Paul to move on."

However, Pogba has travelled with United on their pre-season tour of Australia and Singapore and shone in victories over Perth Glory, Leeds United and Inter Milan.

"We all know Paul and he is a fantastic midfielder, and a very good guy, very positive, and a good influence for everyone," Mata told Sky Sports.

"I think he is happy and brings everyone together, but I cannot speak for other people, I speak for myself.

"As a team-mate and a friend I would like him to stay and be happy because he is a very good player for us."

David de Gea does look set to remain with the Red Devils despite entering the final year of his contract with a new deal for the Spaniard reportedly to be finalised in the coming days.

"David is the best goalkeeper in the world and one of my best friends so I want him to stay," added Mata, who himself signed a new two-year contract to stay at United last month.

"On a professional level, it would be great if he stays because he will give us many points over the next season, so I´m very happy if he stays."