Barcelona are in contact with Manchester United midfielder Juan Mata.

Mata is off contract at the end of the season and waiting to discuss new terms with United.

While it was claimed this week that Barca had rejected an approach from Mata's camp about signing the Spain international before Thursday's deadline, the Catalans are keen for a summer Bosman switch.

Sport says Barca have told Mata they want to explore the prospect of bringing him back to Spain at season's end.

If Mata chooses to turn down terms from United, Barca will move for the player.