Chelsea face a huge dilemma over Cobham academy graduate Mason Mount this summer as his future at Stamford Bridge hangs in the balance. The 24-year-old has been a permanent fixture in the first-team since breaking into the side, but the past season was far from easy.
The England international struggled with a host of injuries that kept him out of action and when he did return, it was to a team that lacked rhythm and continuity from a bloated squad. The two-time Chelsea player of the year now faces a huge decision over the next steps of his career.
With just 12 months remaining on his contract with the Blues, Mount is facing a choice between staying at the club or leaving, whether that's for this summer or the next. For the hierarchy in west London, there's an ultimatum of a new extended deal or a sale to avoid losing him on a free.
Manchester United have been the main side in contention for the midfielder's signature, while Arsenal and Liverpool have shown interest. It's the former that have made the first move, with reports claiming that there's been progression in agreeing personal terms and an opening bid of £40million made.
That offer has been rejected, with the Blues holding a valuation of £70million instead, though that may be a huge fee for a player in the final year of their contract. If Chelsea do price Mount out of a move though, then they face a dilemmas as the Evening Standard reports that the England international is likely to leave on a free transfer next year.
For Mauricio Pochettino, it throws up a question as to how he and Chelsea as a whole should approach the situation going forwards. There are a few scenarios, one where Mount stays at the club, who risk not getting a fee from him at the end of his contract in the hopes of getting him to sign a new one.
The relationship aspect appears to be the clearest thing that's missing from the current outlook for him and repairing that could go a long way towards keeping him. If Pochettino can regain that trust and has the star in his plans, then perhaps there is a way back for the two parties.
That is, of course, risking the midfielder leaving on a free, so the other scenario is that he leaves but for below the transfer valuation of £70million. Not only will that undercut the price set by the west London outfit, but they lose a talent from their academy that could and perhaps should have a part to play in the project going forwards.
It's something for all those involved to consider carefully, with plenty of time left in the transfer market for decisions to be made without a rush.
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