Manchester United continue their pursuit of Chelsea midfielder Mason Mount this summer as talks step up over a potential deal between the two clubs. The midfielder is entering the final year of his contract at Stamford Bridge, leading to an ultimatum over his future.
Either the 24-year-old signs a new deal or the Blues must sell as to not risk losing the Cobham Academy graduate on a free transfer next year. There had been talks over a contract extension towards the back end of last year, however those have been placed on hold as a breakthrough appears unlikely.
That has naturally led to plenty of interest, with Manchester United, Arsenal, Liverpool and Bayern Munich all heavily linked with a move. The England international could be part of a huge squad overhaul that's already seen six players agree deals to leave the club this summer.
N'Golo Kante, Kalidou Koulibaly, Edouard Mendy and Hakim Ziyech are all set to join the Saudi Arabia Pro League as part of a huge recruitment drive following the state's Public Investment Fund investment into four of its clubs. Mateo Kovacic is all set for a move to Manchester City, while Kai Havertz is joining London rivals Arsenal.
There's more outgoings expected as Mauricio Pochettino prepares to take charge of his new squad ahead of the Premier League season. However, there's doubts over whether Mount will be part of that or not as there's still yet to be an agreement over a move away.
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Manchester United have already lodged one bid, but as of Wednesday, have put forward a second offer to Chelsea for the midfielder. That's according to The Athletic, which reports that a £45 million offer with £5m on top in add-ons was proposed by the Red Devils.
This was countered by the west London outfit with £60m guaranteed and £5m in add-ons demanded, something that wasn't taken up and resulted in a rejected bid. United are said to be looking to get a deal for under £60m, but football.london understands that the valuation set by Chelsea is £70m.
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The offer from either party suggests that there is slight movement either side in the deal to try and get it completed and over the line, whilst also being one that works for all parties. Whether they reach that agreement with another bid remains to be seen, but it may outline a positive move.