Chelsea are reportedly optimistic that they will eventually be able to agree a new contract with Mason Mount.
Ever since making his debut for the Blues in 2019, Mount has established himself as one of the club's key players, contributing 32 goals and 37 assists from 181 appearances in all competitions.
However, the academy graduate has not penned fresh terms since signing a long-term contract when he was promoted to the first-team squad nearly three-and-a-half years ago.
That has led to several months of speculation regarding the England international's future, particularly at a time when there has been a change of ownership and other players have agreed extensions.
As it stands, though, Mount now has just 19-and-a-half months remaining on his existing terms and there will be no discussions while he is representing his country at the World Cup.
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Over the weekend, it was claimed that contract talks had reached a stalemate, something which would naturally cause concern behind the scenes at Stamford Bridge.
Nevertheless, according to The Athletic, the situation is not as negative as was perceived just several days ago.
The report says that meetings were held as recently as several weeks ago, and it is felt among both parties that a deal will eventually be reached.
Furthermore, it is suggested that a new deal has never been closer to being signed, although there remain outstanding issues to be resolved.
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The alleged development would come as a major plus for head coach Graham Potter at a time when his side have been struggling on the pitch.
Chelsea have lost four of their last five matches in all competitions, including their most recent three fixtures in the Premier League.
The 23-year-old has also endured an indifferent season from an individual perspective, his only two league goals coming in the same match against Aston Villa.
Mount has failed to contribute a strike or an assist on his last six starts for the West Londoners, a run stretching back to October 16.
Darren Plant
