Manchester
United are expected to formally approach Chelsea about the signing of
midfielder Mason Mount.
It is thought internal discussions over a potential offer are continuing,
with Mount one of a number of midfielders United are looking at in what is
seen as a priority position this summer.
If a deal can be struck, it is thought personal terms are not expected to be
a problem.
Mount's Chelsea contract is due to end in June 2024. Manchester United have
made a number of enquiries over his potential availability this season and
have been encouraged by his complicated situation at Stamford Bridge.
Mount last played for Chelsea in April before undergoing surgery on a pelvic
injury which ruled him out for the rest of the season. He appeared to be
saying his goodbyes following Sunday's 1-1 draw at home to Newcastle United
that ended a dismal campaign.
The 24-year-old, a Chelsea academy graduate, has lifted the Champions League
and Club World Cup since breaking into the senior team. He also in featured
three successive FA Cup finals and their League Cup final loss to Liverpool
on penalties last year.
Mount has played 36 times for England and started in the Euro 2020 final
defeat against Italy.
Merson: Why would Chelsea let Mount go to
a top-four rival?
Sky Sports' Paul Merson:
"I cannot believe Chelsea are letting Mason Mount go.
"We saw it last season with Antonio Rudiger, who was outstanding and one of
the best defenders at the club. He asked for more money and they didn't give
him it and then they buy Kalidou Koulibaly for £33m on a four-year contract
which works out as more money than what they'd give Rudiger.
"Now they're doing it with Mount. He's one of their own, he hasn't had a
very good season but they're judging it just on one season. The year before
he was Chelsea's best player. He was one of the first names on the teamsheet
for England. Now they're letting him go. It's mind-blowing.
"They'll bring someone in who will probably take another year to get used to
the league because they will have played abroad.
"You're also letting a very good footballer go to Manchester United or
Liverpool, who Chelsea are fighting with to get into the top four next
season. You couldn't write it.
"How can you let him go to a club that could majorly haunt you? United won't
believe their luck if they get him."
Chelsea reject £30m Brighton bid for
Colwill
Chelsea have rejected outright a £30m bid from Brighton to sign Levi Colwill
permanently.
Chelsea have no plans to sell the young centre-back this summer. The bid was
equal to Brighton's club-record signing Joao Pedro, who has already joined
from Watford.
Colwill impressed on loan at Brighton last season - but it looks as though
new Chelsea boss Mauricio Pochettino has him in his plans.
He is widely considered by coaches and scouts to be emerging as the best
young left-footed English centre-back.
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