Manchester United have taken a huge stride in the race to sign Mason Mount. The 24-year-old midfielder has been heavily linked with an exit from Stamford Bridge lately, with his contract expiring in 12-months.
football.london understands that the Blues were once close to reaching an agreement with Mount over a new deal. But, following his return from the World Cup in December, an offer was no longer on the table.
Shortly into the new year, Chelsea reopened talks with the England international, but he didn't want to sign a one-year extension. It's believed that Mount has not yet received an improved proposal since, meaning that he'll become a free agent at the end of next season.
So, with that being said, football.london has rounded up the speculation regarding Mount's future.
Man United reach deal
Manchester United have reached an agreement with Chelsea over the sale of Mason Mount. After three offers for the player, all rejected, the Red Devils have upped their offer to £55million plus £5million in add-ons, football.london understands.
Mount is now set to have his medical ahead of a move and personal terms will be finalised.
United compromise
Chelsea could be willing to sacrifice millions over the sale of Mason Mount if it helps them wrap up a deal for Moises Caicedo. The 24-year-old midfielder has been heavily linked with a move to Manchester United recently, with his contract at Stamford Bridge set to expire at the end of next season.
According to The Guardian, Chelsea officials are prepared to make a compromise with United on Mount's £65million valuation, with 'little to gain' from him returning to Cobham training ground in a few days time. The report states that Erik ten Hag's side have a £55million offer – £5million of which is add-ons – on the table.
Bayern Munich plan
As previously reported by The Telegraph, Fabrizio Romano has confirmed that Mount intends to continue working hard if he can't find a new club this summer. However, the Italian journalist's report comes as Bayern Munich look to hijack Manchester United's move for the midfielder.
Pochettino intervenes
According to The Telegraph, Mount is planning to inform Mauricio Pochettino that he will report for pre-season training and make himself available for the Blues' tour of the United States which kicks off on July 17.
While Mount may be happy to see out his contract, the report states that the Chelsea boss is hoping that the majority of the want-away players will be sold before July 17. His squad are returning to training from next Tuesday, with those who have tended to their international duties arriving later.
The Telegraph add that Pochettino would like to meet Mount if his future remains unsolved by the time they begin working together.
Meeting planned
United have agreed a meeting with Chelsea in the next two days to reach a final agreement over the future of Mount. That's according to Fabrizio Romano, who claims that the two sides are to hold negotiations to make a final decision over the England international.
United decision
After seeing their latest Mount offer rejected, United have made the decision to focus on other midfield targets, according to a new report from The Times.
The top of that list is said to be Brighton star Moises Caicedo, who is also the Blues' primary target, and therefore a battle between the two clubs for his signature could now take place.
READ MORE: Chelsea news and transfers LIVE: 'Done deal', Mason Mount agreement, Christian Pulisic exit
Another bid made
The Athletic report that United have now made a third for Mount with this one worth £55million. After a second bid worth up to £50million - an initial sum of £45million plus add-onds - was rejected last week.
Chelsea had pushed back with a large increase of £60million plus an extra £7million in extras but a compromise has been made. United see Mount as a key target for the window and signing on at Chelsea now seems extremely unlikely.
New bid
United are set to bid in excess of £55million for Chelsea star Mount, according to a new report from The Times. Discussions have continued since Wednesday when a £45million offer, plus £5 million in add-ons, was rejected and now a proposal worth over £55million is set to be submitted.
It has also been made very clear this will be the final offer from Erik ten Hag's men and they are ready to walk away from the deal if it is not accepted.
Agreement close
Manchester United are nearing an agreement with Chelsea over the signing of Mason Mount this summer, according to a report from the Mirror. The Red Devils are said to be nearing a £60million deal for the England international, with the move getting closer, though it remains to be seen when another official offer is tabled.
New asking price
Chelsea's countered offer of £60million, with a further £5million in add-ons, for Mount has become his new asking price. United sent their second bid worth £45million with £5million in add-ons, but saw that rejected, however they now know exactly how much they must pay.
According to Fabrizio Romano, Chelsea are now more 'flexible' over the price and may accept a proposal between £60-£65million.
Fresh stance
Mount's camp have again told Chelsea he has no plans to sign a new contract at Stamford Bridge, according to Fabrizio Romano. His current deal expires in 2024, which makes a summer sale the expected outcome with United preparing to table a third bid after seeing their second proposal worth £50million turned down.
Bid response
Chelsea rejected a second approach from United for Mount, according to Fabrizio Romano. The Blues are said to want more than the £50million offered and United won't pay a "crazy" fee, but talks will continue over the potential for a deal to be done.
New bid
Manchester United made a new bid to Chelsea for Mason Mount this summer, according to a report from The Athletic. The initial offer was said to be £45million with £5million in add-ons, with the Blues countering that offer with £60million and £5million in add-ons.
It represents a gap in valuation between the two clubs, but one that is moving closer as United make their push and the Blues look for a sale.
Mount opens up on future
Mason Mount remained coy on transfer speculation when asked about what was to come next this summer at the Spanish Formula One Grand Prix in Barcelona. Sky Sports reporter Martin Brundle addressed it: "He said you're going to Man United!"
Mount replied: "No I'm just here to enjoy this race today, an amazing day, I can't wait to watch it!"
James and Chilwell verdict
Reece James and Ben Chilwell gave their thoughts on Mount's future and uncertainty around him at Barcelona, too.
"Of course, if he [Mount] goes, everyone will be sad to see him go," James said. Chilwell added: "It's none of my business personally, but I'd love him to stay. He's my best mate, so personally I'd love him to stay but it's none of my business."
Man United price stance
Mount prefers a move to Old Trafford but there remain complications over that move being sanctioned, particularly in regard to his price. According to the Independent, United are unwilling to go as high as £55million because their own summer budget is open to change over uncertainty regarding a club takeover.
However, the report adds, there is belief that a deal will be completed despite the two parties currently being far part in their valuations.
Old Trafford preference
Mount seem to prefer a move to United, if Chelsea sanction his exit this summer. The 24-year-old midfielder has been heavily linked with an exit for a while now, with his contract set to expire in 12 months...
United bid ready
United are preparing a summer bid for Chelsea star Mount in the coming weeks as the Daily Mail reports that the Red Devils are eyeing a £55million offer. That remains lower than the reported valuation of £85million set by the Blues for the midfielder, who is nearing the end of his contract and is being monitored by the likes of Liverpool and Arsenal too.
Major Mount exit update
Chelsea supporters have been given a worrying Mason Mount transfer update by Italian journalist Fabrizio Romano which seems to hint a departure from the Blues is expected. Speaking to Amp, he said: "Speaking to some sources today, it is going to be very difficult to extend Mason Mount, really complicated."
Arsenal interest explained
Arsenal have once again been referenced in the discussions surrounding the future of Chelsea star Mount. As per the Athletic, Mikel Arteta wants to add creativity in a more advanced midfield position which has fuelled the pursuit of Mount, after news of Granit Xhaka's expected departure.
