Manchester United are reportedly preparing an opening offer of £50m for Chelsea attacker Mason Mount.
The Red Devils have seemingly identified the England international as one of their leading targets for this summer's transfer window, with head coach Erik ten Hag looking to add some energy to his midfield.
There have been claims that Chelsea value Mount in the region of £85m, but the 24-year-old's contract is due to expire next summer, and the Blues are under pressure to sell this summer in order to balance the books due to their huge spending over the last couple of transfer windows.
According to The Telegraph, the 20-time English champions are preparing to make a bid of £50m, with the club confident that reflects a fair offer in the current market.
Man United have allegedly already come to an agreement with Mount over personal terms, with the club now needing to settle on a transfer fee with Chelsea in order to sign him.
© Reuters
Mount found it difficult to show his best form for the Blues during the 2022-23 campaign, managing just three goals and six assists in 35 appearances in all competitions.
However, the attacker struggled with a pelvic injury in the second half of the season and was ultimately forced to undergo an operation that ended his campaign.
Incoming Chelsea boss Mauricio Pochettino is said to be keen to keep hold of Mount, but it is now seen as likely that the Englishman will leave Stamford Bridge this summer.
Mount has scored 33 goals and registered 37 assists in 195 appearances for the Blues, becoming a first-team player at the club after successful loan spells with Vitesse and Derby County.
© Reuters
The attacker dodged a question on his future when quizzed on a potential move to Man United at the Spanish Grand Prix at the weekend.
"I'm here to just enjoy this race today, amazing day, can't wait to watch it," Mount told Sky Sports News presenter Martin Brundle when asked whether he was joining Ten Hag's side.
Man United are expected to overhaul their midfield this summer, with Fred and Scott McTominay potentially both being allowed to leave in order to make room for new signings.
Mount's close friend Declan Rice is also said to be a leading target for the Red Devils, with the West Ham United captain preparing to leave the London Stadium this summer.
Man United will also move for a new centre-forward in the upcoming market, but it remains to be seen whether they are capable of signing leading target Harry Kane from Tottenham Hotspur.
Matt Law
