Atletico Madrid target wants Manchester United stay

Ander Herrera’s preference is to sign a new Manchester United contract despite interest from Atletico Madrid, reports ESPN.

Diego Simeone is reportedly keen on signing the 28-year-old but Herrera is willing to turn down the chance to return to Spain in order to prolong his career at Old Trafford.

United have triggered a one-year extension in Herrera’s contract, keeping him at the club until 2019, but both sides are confident there will be a breakthrough in negotiations.

Nevertheless, Atletico and other interested clubs will continue to monitor Herrera’s future until he long-term future is resolved.

United supporters called for Herrera to replace Wayne Rooney as captain over the summer after establishing himself as a key player under Jose Mourinho last season.

However, Herrera started the season out of the team and only regained his place in the starting XI following injuries to Paul Pogba, Marouane Fellaini and Michael Carrick.

Since the start of last season, Herrera has completed more tackles (106) and interceptions (94) than any other United player in the Premier League.