Chelsea star Mason Mount is yet to sign a contract renewal at Stamford Bridge, with talks having paused until after the World Cup.
Mount is set to feature for England in Qatar after being selected alongside teammates Raheem Sterling and Conor Gallagher as part of Gareth Southgate's 26-man squad for the tournament. The Blues midfielder has enjoyed a good campaign so far after a slow start but remains a key player for both club and country, being the only player to have played every Premier League match so far this season for Chelsea.
Mount's current deal at Stamford Bridge is set to expire in 2024, but the club are prioritising securing his long-term future after agreeing a new contract for Reece James. The 23-year-old has expressed his desire to stay with the Blues, but talks over an extension have proved to be unsuccessful so far, leading to interest from rival clubs in England and abroad.
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As reported earlier this week, football.london understands that one of the key stumbling blocks in negotiations has been the length of Mount's new contract. The England international is said to have rejected an offer of a seven-year deal despite his desire to remain at Chelsea.
Whilst talks may now be paused until Mount returns from international duty, both the player and Blues feel positive steps have been taken in recent weeks towards an agreement, though there is still a lot to be decided upon, including the 23-year-old's improved salary terms. Todd Boehly has moved towards offering more incentive-based contracts to players, yet Mount is said to want a base salary that represents his importance to the club.
The ongoing situation has now led to interest growing from Premier League rivals Liverpool and Serie A giants Juventus, according to The Guardian. Both clubs are keeping track of the growing uncertainty around Mount's future, with Chelsea's initial proposals falling well below the midfielder's expectations.
Manchester City have previously been linked with Mount, but now it seems Jurgen Klopp's side and The Old Lady are hopeful of convincing the England star to leave west London. Chelsea are set to sign midfield reinforcements next year, having been linked with moves for Jude Bellingham, Declan Rice and Frenkie de Jong, whilst Liverpool and Juventus are both in desperate need of freshening up their ageing midfield.
Whilst an agreement over a contract extension remains the most likely outcome for Mount at Chelsea, interest from elsewhere continues to grow, putting pressure on Boehly to agree to the 23-year-old's demands.
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