Juan Mata hopes fantastic and influential midfielder Paul Pogba will remain at Manchester United and help turn the city red again.

Three years after returning to Old Trafford in what was a world-record £89million deal, the 26-year-old has publicly admitted he is open to “a new challenge somewhere else”.

Those comments sent tongues wagging, as did agent Mino Raiola speaking about his client’s desire to leave amid interest from the likes of Real Madrid and Juventus.

But Pogba has knuckled down during United’s pre-season tour and was in good spirits at an adidas event held in Singapore’s Marina Bay on Sunday.

There does appear to be a growing belief within United that they can get back to challenging for trophies in the coming years.

David De Gea appears poised to sign a new, long-term deal, which would be a welcome shot in the arm on a personal and collective level for Mata, who has already seen one compatriot depart this summer after Ander Herrera left for Paris St Germain.

“Obviously David is the best or one of the best goalkeepers in the world for sure,” Mata added.

“He is one of my best friends, so I want him to stay.

“On a professional level, it will be great for us if he stays because he will give us many points over the next seasons. I am very happy if he stays.

“Obviously Ander is a good friend also, I am sad to see him leave but as a friend I wish him the best and I hope he is happy in Paris now.”