Arsenal are reportedly set to battle Liverpool for the signature of Chelsea midfielder Mason Mount.
The 24-year-old is set to enter the final 12 months of his contract, and negotiations over a new deal have proven to be tricky.
Mount is keen to see his current wages treble to £240,000 a week, as he looks to be brought in line with the club's highest earners.
The Englishman is also reluctant to sign a contract of seven years or more, which has been the common practice under Todd Boehly's ownership.
A recent report claimed that Chelsea are growing confident that a new deal can be agreed with the England international.
© Reuters
However, if talks do break down, the Blues could decide to cash in rather than risk losing Mount on a free transfer in 2024.
Liverpool have reportedly made Mount their top target after pulling out of the race to sign Borussia Dortmund star Jude Bellingham this summer.
With Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, Naby Keita and James Milner all out of contract in the summer, the Reds are set to overhaul their midfield ahead of the 2023-24 season.
Should they decide to pursue a transfer for the Chelsea man, Liverpool could face competition from a Premier League rival.
According to GOAL, Arsenal are considering a move for the midfielder and talks have taken place over his availability.
© Reuters
The report claims that Mount's ability to play in a number of different positions makes him an appealing option to the Gunners, who are looking to build a side that can balance Champions League and domestic football next season.
Despite showing interest in Mount, Arsenal are still prioritising a move for West Ham United's midfielder Declan Rice, who is their number one summer target.
Manchester City, Manchester United and Newcastle United are also believed to be among Mount's admirers.
The Chelsea academy graduate has made 195 appearances for the senior side, scoring 33 goals and providing 37 assists.