Mason Mount has emerged as a shock transfer target for Arsenal this summer, but has been told he should stay at Chelsea by Gunners legend Emmanuel Petit.
Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta is keen on heavily bolstering his midfield options ahead of next season and Mount's close friend and West Ham captain Declan Rice has long been touted as the Gunners' main focus once the window opens. However, recent reports have claimed those at the top of the Arsenal hierarchy are as equally keen on a move for Mount.
The Chelsea academy graduate sees his Blues contract expire in June of next year, which puts Frank Lampard's side in a difficult position. This summer presents the club's last realistic chance to cash in on the England international or risk Mount leaving on a free in the summer window of 2024.
A number of Premier League sides are well aware of Mount's contract situation and Arsenal aren't alone in their interest, with Liverpool also keeping close tabs on the 24-year-old's situation.
Mount is surely spending his time on the sidelines while he recovers from injury mulling over what to do in regards to his club future, but Chelsea have been told they cannot afford to let one of their prized assets leave.
Ex-Arsenal man Petit, who also spent an underwhelming period of his career at Stamford Bridge, spoke to BoyleSports and made his feelings on the saga clear.
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"Chelsea should try their best to keep Mount," the Frenchman claimed. "I know he’s been linked with some big clubs, but taking away this season, he has been remarkable and he’s grown up with the club.
"He was developing into a brilliant midfield player, with goals and assists, and I think this year has been a transition year for Chelsea - so don’t put everything in a rubbish bin.
"He’s one of the last English players in the dressing room, too, which is very important for the fans. Chelsea should not make a stupid decision to sell Mount, he should stay at Chelsea."
It doesn't seem like Mount is going to listen to Petit's advice, given reports claiming he has rejected Chelsea's most recent contract proposal.
If Mount were to swap west London for north, he wouldn't be the first, with his former Chelsea team-mate Jorginho lining up in midfield for the Gunners following his January switch.
The Italy international admitted that working with Arteta was a big factor in his decision, while Rice has also talked up the Arsenal boss in the past - it remains to be seen if Mount feels the same way.
