Liverpool have been handed a major wakeup call in the race to sign Mason Mount, with Manchester United reportedly stepping up their pursuit. The 24-year-old midfielder faces an increasingly uncertain future at Stamford Bridge with his contract expiring in 12 months.
football.london understands that the Blues were thought to be close to reaching an agreement over an extension before the World Cup in December but, following Mount's return from Qatar, the offer was no longer on the table. Towards the end of January, the west Londoners reopened talks with the England international, though he wasn't keen on signing a one-year deal despite a proposed salary increase.
Mount is not among the top earners at Cobham despite tallying nearly 200 appearances for the club. Since the start of the year, it's understood that Mount has not received another offer since.
READ MORE: Chelsea lose out on $148m jaw-dropping deal opportunity as Man City and Arsenal take advantage
Ultimately, if an agreement cannot be reached then Mount will become a free agent in June 2024. With Chelsea in a race against time to cash in on the Englishman, it's believed that Manchester United and Arsenal are just as seriously interested in Mount as Liverpool are.
Jurgen Klopp is in the market for a new midfielder this summer as the Reds hope to narrow the gap with three-peat Premier League champions, Manchester City. And, Mount has reportedly been identified as a target but they've been given a wakeup call.
According to Sky Sports, the Red Devils are preparing to formally approach Chelsea regarding the signing of the Englishman after agreeing personal terms. If Liverpool can claw back an advantage in the race to sign Mount then they've been encouraged to break the bank and acquire Jude Bellingham too.
"Mason Mount, Liverpool should sign him. Or Manchester United," Dean Saunders told talkSPORT. "I think he’s having problems, I think his dad’s doing his contract. They can’t get it sorted, the door’s open.
"If you’re Liverpool or Man United – imagine Liverpool had Bellingham and Mount in midfield. Two good players, but you’ve got to put your hand in your pocket.
"I think he should go to Liverpool. You could slot him in there to join in with the front three, get him the ball, he’s got a good football brain."
READ NEXT:
Manuel Ugarte to Chelsea transfer: Player stance, PSG advantage, £2.6m problem, Pochettino call
Two Chelsea stars follow Aubameyang first out of the door as Pochettino launches strict plan
Inside Mason Mount contract negotiations with Chelsea as Pochettino gets involved
Mauricio Pochettino faces crucial £2.6m Chelsea problem in Manuel Ugarte transfer race with PSG
Chelsea news and transfers LIVE: Moises Caicedo agreement, Manuel Ugarte worry, Gabri Veiga move
