Chelsea midfielder open to Mourinho reunion at Manchester United

Manchester United have been given encouragement in their pursuit of Nemanja Matic with the Chelsea midfielder keen to work for Jose Mourinho again, reports The Daily Mail.

Mourinho has made signing a new central midfielder as a priority for United this season and Matic is reportedly one of the names he has given to chief executive Ed Woodward.

Matic rediscovered his best form for Chelsea during their Premier League winning campaign last season but feels this summer is the right time for a change.

The fact Chelsea are trying to sign Monaco midfielder Tiemoue Bakayoko may also work in United’s favour given his arrival would have a direct impact on Matic’s first team opportunities next season.

Tottenham midfielder Eric Dier is Mourinho’s first choice but Mauricio Pochettino’s side have reportedly told United to cough up £50m and Matic may represent a more viable option this summer.

Since returning to Chelsea in January 2014 only Victor Wanyama (439) has won possession in the midfield third more times than Matic (434).

For more stats on Nemanja Matic, click here to visit his WhoScored player page