Rio Ferdinand believes Juan Mata's contract at Manchester United could be extended due to his influence in the dressing room.
The Spaniard's contract expires at the end of the season, but there has been no word on whether he will remain at Old Trafford.
On the final day of the season, Mata scored what could be his final goal for Manchester United from the penalty spot, leading his team to a 2-1 victory over Wolves at Moleinxu.
Anthony Elanga scored his first goal for the club, and Mata sealed the three points shortly after Nelson Semedo equalized for the hosts.
While many expect Mata to leave the club at the end of the season, Ferdinand believes there is value in keeping the 33-year-old.
"I expect he'll be somewhere with a warmer climate, warmer weathers," he said to BT Sport.
"I believe he has earned the right to choose where he wants to relax and enjoy his football.
"You never know, they might decide to extend his contract here. He has a great calming influence in that dressing room, and there will be young players watching him on a daily basis.
"He's an excellent trainer who consistently delivers high-quality results and applies himself correctly."
"We're talking to Juan," Ole Gunnar Solskjaer said before the game against the Wolves.
"We've had a lot of good conversations, and we'll keep having them. Let's see what he wants to do at the season's end.
"He's a true professional and a fantastic player. It's difficult for me not to play him more than I have. There were circumstances this season, personal issues that limited his availability, but he is still a top player.
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