Arsenal are stepping up their plan for the summer transfer window and with it are a whole host of new names linked with a switch. One of those that has recently cropped up is Chelsea midfielder Mason Mount, with reports claiming that the Gunners have opened initial talks over his availability.
The England international is approaching the final 12-months of his contract at Stamford Bridge, opening up the possibility of a move. With the Gunners in need of further reinforcements in the midfield positions in the summer window, it's a real prospect that Mount could feature next season.
Mikel Arteta will be able to play him in several positions though, thanks to the flexibility that the 24-year-old has in his playing style. So with that said, here's a look at a few ways he could start for Arsenal, should he eventually make the move.
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The 'Xhaka' role
The transformation of Granit Xhaka this season has brought a breath of fresh air to his career at the Emirates and has fueled a push for the title. However, beyond the Swiss international starting, there are few options in the squad that could play his role, should he not be available.
Xhaka often plays on the left-side of the midfield and will join the front line to help create a five pushing against the opposition defence. This is a role that Mount could play, with his out of possession attributes working perfectly for an aggressive press, while he has the nuance to play between the lines and cause issues for other teams there.
Out wide
One of the areas that Mount has found some joy at times during his career is in the wide areas, where he has been able to drift and cause teams problems. While he wouldn't be a guaranteed starters over the current options, his versatility offers something different when required.
Odegaard backup
This may be the most unlikely of the three options, but Mount could always play as a slight understudy to Martin Odegaard, who plays on the right-side of the midfield three. The club captain has continually impressed there, though his current backup in Fabio Vieira is yet to hit the same heights.
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