Mason Mount will reportedly look to sign for Manchester United if Chelsea do not put a bigger contract offer on the table.
For a number of months, the academy graduate has been linked with a move away from Stamford Bridge, a consequence of a breakdown in discussions over fresh terms.
Mount is known to want parity alongside some of his teammates, whereas Chelsea's owners would prefer for the playmaker to agree to a lower wage spread over a longer deal.
While a resolution remains a possibility with Mauricio Pochettino keen to retain the services of the England international, it is also perceived to be increasingly unlikely.
With Chelsea eager to boost their position with FFP, there is no prospect of Mount being able to run down the final year of his contract, effectively leaving the West Londoners to consider offers.
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A report earlier on Tuesday indicated that Man United are ready to make a formal approach for the 24-year-old over the coming weeks.
According to The Athletic, Mount would welcome such a proposal with a switch to Old Trafford his preference if he leaves Chelsea.
The report suggests that talks between the clubs and relevant parties could be held in due course with a deal theoretically benefitting all concerned.
Mount has admirers at a wide range of other clubs, including Arsenal and Liverpool who are keen to strengthen their own midfield and creative areas.
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Nevertheless, it appears that United are destined to win the race for Mount if they are able to agree a fee with their Chelsea counterparts.
The Daily Mail claims that United are willing to pay £55m for Mount, whereas Chelsea have allegedly set his asking price at £85m.
Although Mount has endured a frustrating 2022-23, he has contributed 33 goals and 37 assists from his 195 appearances for Chelsea.
A pelvic injury has kept Mount sidelined since the middle of April, but he is expected to be fit for pre-season at whichever club he finds himself at during that particular period.
Darren Plant
