Manchester United are preparing an opening offer for Chelsea star Mason Mount as Erik ten Hag looks to bolster his squad. The Blues are set to move on a number of players this summer as Todd Boehly looks to trim down Mauricio Pochettino's squad.
football.london understands United are leading the race to sign Mount ahead of next season despite Liverpool putting in more groundwork to sign the 24-year-old. Senior figures at United began discussions with Chelsea last week and made clear their desire to sign the England international.
Mount is entering the final 12 months of his contract at Stamford Bridge and has rejected a number of proposals made by the club for him to extend his stay. A source told football.london that just before the FIFA World Cup that took place last year, the two-time Chelsea player of the season was optimistic an agreement could be reached.
However, with a new-look transfer team in place at Stamford Bridge following the World Cup, the offer presented to Mount and his entourage was no longer on the table upon his return to west London. A report from The Times stated that insiders at the west London outfit said salary and bonuses proved to be the major sticking point in negotiations over a new contract for Mount.
There have been three offers that would have increased the Cobham graduate's pay to be in line with the highest earners at the club. Meanwhile, those close to Mount have suggested that money is not the reason why a new contract is yet to be agreed - with the player instead desiring stability and a clear role in the squad.
Chelsea's £75million valuation of the player is proving to be a major sticking point in negotiations with United unwilling to submit an offer higher than £55million - for now. Mount was spotted in Barcelona attending the Formula 1 Spanish Grand Prix last weekend - along with teammates Ben Chilwell and Reece James.
READ MORE: Inside Mason Mount contract negotiations with Chelsea as Mauricio Pochettino gets involved
Sky Sports F1 presenter Martin Brundle posed the question to the Chelsea star about a possible move to United: "He [Ben Chilwell] said you're going to Man United!" To which Mount laughed and replied: "No I'm just here to enjoy this race today, an amazing day, I can't wait to watch it!"
Both Chilwell and James were asked about Mount's potential exit ahead of the race with both players urging their team-mate to stay at Stamford Bridge. According to Fabrizio Romano, Ten Hag's side are preparing an opening bid for Mount and are remaining calm over negotiations with Chelsea regarding a deal to sign Mount with the player keen on a move to Old Trafford.
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