Real Sociedad are pushing Manchester United to release Juan Maya from his contract.

La Real are keen to lure the former Chelsea midfielder back to La Liga for a career finale after ten years in England, says The Sun.

The Basque side are currently sixth in La Liga and looking to push on to secure Champions League qualification.

And coach Imanol Alguacil believes Mata's big-time experience could be crucial in the run-in. The veteran is off contract in June.

Interim United boss Ralf Rangnick is unlikely to stand in the way of the player's departure.

But the move would involve Mata taking a substantial pay cut if he sacrifices the final six months of his United salary.