Valencia 'battling to keep Fran Villalba'

Valencia are reportedly in the process of offering highly-rated youngster Fran Villalba a new contract in order to prevent the midfielder from leaving the Mestalla.

The 18-year-old was handed his Valencia debut by Gary Neville last season, but despite his rise to the first team, it is understood that the Spaniard's current contract includes a buyout clause of just £3.6m.

The teenager's agent recently revealed that Manchester United were interested in signing his client, but according to Super Deporte, Valencia are hoping that Villalba will accept their offer of a new contract.

Villalba, who has represented Spain at Under-16, Under-17, Under-18 and Under-19 level, has made four first-team appearances for his Spanish club.