Liverpool are reportedly targeting a sensational swoop move for England star Mason Mount as his talks over a new Chelsea contract continue to stall.
Mount's deal at Stamford Bridge will expire in just 18 months, with negotiations over fresh terms ongoing since the summer. So far, though, there has been no agreement, leaving the Blues' Premier League rivals assessing the situation.
The attacking midfielder has starred for Chelsea since breaking into their first team under former boss Frank Lampard. His performances this term have also earned him a place in the England squad for the World Cup this winter.
According to The Guardian, talks between his representatives and Chelsea will be put on hold until he returns from the tournament. It is said that the Blues have 'no desire' to lose Mount and are optimistic he will stay.
They are set to offer him improved terms, though Mount is thought to want a bumper pay rise. Chelsea's initial offers have fallen below his expectations for a key member of the team.
That is said to have prompted rivals to check in to see if he could be lured away from Stamford Bridge. Liverpool and Juventus are said to be 'keeping track' of the 23-year-old, who is seen as one of the brightest English talents.
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Liverpool are looking to overhaul their midfield options, with Jude Bellingham also a target. But with Mount also potentially available, the Reds are exploring the possibility of also bringing him to Anfield.
Title challengers Manchester City have also been linked with a move for Mount in the past, while a move to Juventus looks unlikely given their recent struggles. It is claimed the news of increased interest from rivals could lead to 'greater urgency' from Chelsea to get a deal done.
For now, Mount's focus is on international matters, with England's first game of the tournament fast approaching. Ad the Chelsea star is under no illusions as to the task the Three Lions are facing at the World Cup.
"The teams that have done well over the last couple of years, France, Brazil, I think they're two teams that are going to be strong," he told talkSPORT .
"For us, obviously playing the Euros, friendly games or other games we play, we don't really get to experience the likes of Brazil and Argentina and Colombia, the teams that do the stuff off the ball.
"The dark arts of the game, which you have to... especially in a big game like this, or if we do get to play them, you have to be ready for that. I think they played them in 2018, Colombia.
"I watched it and it was a tough game. These are the games you want to play in. We're ready and we're enjoying every moment so far and we've got three tough, tough group games to start."
