Manchester United boss Jose Mourinho is ready to offer Chris Smalling a new contract.

The Daily Star says the England defender, 28, has less than 12 months remaining on his current contract and an extension will be offered by the club at some point this season.

That's despite Smalling being part of a group of players at the club who are currently being kept waiting for offers.

Smalling's luxury £2m Cheshire home was spotted up for sale last week.

And Arsenal continue to be long-term admirers of the Londoner, who moved from Fulham to United for £10m in 2010.

But United insiders maintain the player is happy at the club and boss Jose Mourinho is not happy to risk letting him walk away for free when his deal ends.