In a surprising twist, Mason Mount, the talented midfielder from Chelsea, is reportedly leaning towards joining Manchester United instead of Liverpool, with Champions League football being a major factor in his decision.
Mega Wage Demands Spark Departure of Mason Mount
While personal terms have been agreed upon between Mount and United, a transfer fee is yet to be settled between the two clubs. Sources from Football Insider reveal that if the deal goes through, Mount stands to earn a hefty £200,000 per week at Old Trafford. This comes after Liverpool planned to hijack the Chelsea deal for Romeo Lavia.
Mount’s departure from Stamford Bridge is a result of failed contract negotiations. Chelsea, aiming to reduce costs after an extravagant spending spree in the previous season, refused to meet Mount’s wage demands.
The club’s strategy involves offering longer-term deals with smaller salaries to their players. Mount, currently earning £80,000 per week, sought to be placed in the top earning bracket, but the Blues stood firm in their stance.
Several clubs, including Liverpool, Manchester City, Newcastle, and Arsenal, have shown interest in acquiring Mount’s services. However, it is Manchester United who are making significant progress in securing the deal.
The 24-year-old midfielder, who displayed his prowess with three goals in 35 appearances last season, has also made his mark on the international stage, representing England in the World Cup in Qatar.
Champions League Ambitions and Financial Pressures
Manchester United’s qualification for the Champions League next season adds to their appeal for Mount, as they aim to bolster their squad and reduce their reliance on top goalscorer Marcus Rashford. The Red Devils’ manager, Erik Ten Hag, has confirmed his intention to sign a new striker in the summer transfer window.
United’s negotiations with Chelsea come at a time when the latter club is under pressure to sell players and recoup funds. Mount’s contract situation puts Manchester United in a favorable position, while Chelsea’s financial fair play concerns do not seem to be a factor. However, parting ways with Mount, a fan favorite and long-time player for Chelsea, carries the risk of upsetting supporters.
As talks between Mount and Chelsea have stalled, the midfielder, known for his pressing, versatility, and intelligence, fits well into Erik ten Hag’s plans for a more athletic midfield. Chelsea may also face the departure of other academy products such as Trevoh Chalobah and Callum Hudson-Odoi.
While there is interest from Milan for Ruben Loftus-Cheek, Chelsea are determined to hold onto Levi Colwill, rejecting a bid from Brighton. Conor Gallagher, another academy player, is willing to stay and fight for a place in Pochettino’s midfield.
In addition to the Mount pursuit, Man United are eyeing other targets, including a striker such as Harry Kane, Victor Osimhen, or Rasmus Højlund. Meanwhile, Chelsea have granted permission to Mateo Kovacic to speak to Manchester City, indicating further potential departures from the club.
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