Manchester United playmaker Juan Mata would not join Manchester City or Liverpool, according to his father.

Mata will become a free agent this summer, should he not agree on an extension with United.

But he will not be joining either of the Red Devils' storied rivals.

"City? It would not be the ideal option," Mata senior said.

"There are two options that do not [appeal]: Liverpool and City.

"We have to respect the Manchester United fans, he is held very dear here."