FOOTBALL LONDON
Chelsea star Mason Mount has been spotted in Barcelona with Manchester United having now opened talks with Chelsea regarding a potential transfer for the 24-year-old. The England international is entering the final 12 months of his current deal at Stamford Bridge with talks over a renewal proving unsuccessful so far.
A source told football.london that just before the FIFA World Cup that took place last year, Mount was optimistic an agreement could be reached. However, with a new-look transfer team in place at Chelsea following the World Cup, the offer presented to Mount and his entourage was no longer on the table upon his return to west London.
United are now leading the race to sign the Chelsea star this summer with reports stating Old Trafford is his preferred destination. Whilst Erik ten Hag’s side are yet to make an official offer for the Blues midfielder, senior figures at United have begun discussions with Chelsea and made clear their desire to sign the England international.
A report from The Times states that insiders at the west London outfit say salary and bonuses proved to be the major sticking point in negotiations over a new contract for Mount. There have been three offers that would have increased the Cobham graduate’s pay to be in line with the highest earners at the club.
