LONDON, June 19 (Xinhua) -- Manchester United's Spanish attacking midfielder Juan Mata has signed a new contract that will keep him at the club until the end of June 2021.

The agreement comes less than a fortnight before Mata's current deal expires meaning he could have left the club on a free transfer.

Speaking on the club website, Manchester United coach Ole Gunnar Solskjaer said that the 31-year-old's experience and professionalism were key to wanting him to stay at Old Trafford.

"Juan is the ultimate professional and one of the most intelligent players I have worked with. He is a great example to our younger players in his approach.

"He understands what it means to be a Manchester United player and has embraced everything about this great club. We have some fantastic young players here and I know that Juan's vast experience will help them to reach their potential over the coming seasons.

"I am delighted that he has signed a new contract, as I know that his talent and mentality will be invaluable to the squad," said Solskjaer.

Mata, who has played 218 times with 45 goals for Manchester United since signing from Chelsea in January 2014, said it was "a real honor to continue to represent this amazing club and our incredible fans. I have been at Manchester United for five years and I am proud to call Old Trafford my home."