Chelsea look set to appoint Mauricio Pochettino as manager ahead of next season and the Argentine hopes that Mason Mount will be a key player in his rebuild at Stamford Bridge. The Blues have recently reopened contract talks with the 24-year-old midfielder after initial negotiations had stalled.
Mount has already rejected a proposal to sign a new seven-year deal at Chelsea - similar to Reece James' deal - as the England international believes it would limit his opportunity for an improved deal in the future. The Cobham graduate wants a significant wage rise that represents his value to the team, something which the Blues are yet to agree to.
Todd Boehly met with Mount this month to reiterate his importance to the club but an agreement over a new deal is yet to be reached. football.london understands Liverpool are seriously interested in signing the Chelsea midfielder this summer with Jurgen Klopp being a huge admirer of the England international.
READ MORE: Liverpool make Mason Mount transfer decision as Chelsea star's future takes another twist
Arsenal have also been linked with a move for Mount this summer and football.london understands Mikel Arteta is prioritising a move to sign Mount's close friend, Declan Rice, from West Ham. football.london reported earlier this month that Chelsea would want a fee in the region of £70million for the midfielder's services if a breakthrough in contract negotiations cannot be reached.
Mount is set to miss the rest of the season after undergoing an abdomen operation and is entering the final 12 months of his current deal. Pochettino, who is expected to become the next Chelsea head coach, has identified the 24-year-old as a someone who can play an integral role in his team next season, according to The Daily Mail.
The Argentine is a huge admirer of Mount’s ability on the ball and work-ethic and feels the Chelsea star would suit the style he wants to implement at Stamford Bridge next season. Pochettino's appointment could help the Blues keep hold of both Mount and N'Golo Kante - with the latter's contract set to expire at the end of the season despite confidence that a renewal can be agreed with the 32-year-old.
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