Chelsea boss Graham Potter has admitted he has made his feelings clear towards Mason Mount regarding his contract standoff with the club. The 24-year-old has been locked in negotiations with the Blues over a new deal since last November, but little to no progress over an extension has been made in that time.
Under Frank Lampard and Thomas Tuchel, Mount was a key figure, helping the club win the Champions League in the 2020/21 season. Despite a bright star under Potter, the England international has seen his form dip at the worst possible time, with contract talks ongoing.
Chelsea were able to secure back-to-back wins for the first time since October on Tuesday when they overcame Borussia Dortmund in the Champions League last-16. Three days prior, the Blues beat Leeds at Stamford Bridge and did so without Mount, who suffered an abdomen injury at the beginning of March.
READ MORE: Todd Boehly keen on signing top Newcastle star for Chelsea despite proposed contract talks
Contract talks stalling has seen several Premier League clubs take notice, with Liverpool recently linked along with Manchester United in the Mount transfer race. Despite his impact waning in recent months, with multiple bench appearances coming before his injury, Potter insists the Cobham graduate still has a future at the club.
"Yes," Potter replied promptly when asked if Mount was still part of his plans. "But I am not naive. I know it is an important time for him and an important contract. These things have to be right for him and his family. It’s important he makes a decision on that basis.
"Ultimately it is between the club and Mason. I have spoken to him numerous times about his situation, football and life generally. My feelings for Mason are clear.
"He is a fantastic person firstly but sometimes these things happen. They are just complicated and it is best that I speak little about it, let them get on with it in deciding what is right for both parties."
READ NEXT:
Every word Graham Potter said on Leicester, Chelsea future, James, Silva, Kante, Mount, Mudryk
Chelsea star has ‘private conversations’ with Graham Potter after Leeds and Dortmund snubs
Joao Felix drops major hint on Chelsea summer transfer decision amid £124m permanent deal
Graham Potter has rare Chelsea chance vs Leicester City but Denis Zakaria decision remains
Chelsea news and transfers LIVE: All the latest news, rumours and gossip from Stamford Bridge
