Man United Make Opening Bid for Mason Mount

Manchester United have made their opening bid for Chelsea’s Mason Mount, as manager Erik ten Hag appears determined to land the England star.

The Red Devils have reportedly settled on personal terms with Mount, with hopes that a deal could be completed by the end of the week.

However, United’s £50m offer falls short of Chelsea’s expected asking price of around £70m, leaving a considerable gap in valuations between the clubs.

Mount, who is entering the final year of his contract, is an academy product and represents a rare opportunity for Chelsea to make a substantial profit in the transfer market this summer. With incoming manager Mauricio Pochettino wanting funds to reshape his squad, it seems likely that Mount will be sold.

United are ‘firm favourites’ to win the race for Mount, despite interest from Liverpool and Arsenal, and are keen to get two players in the door in time for preseason. Short of an incredible U-turn, Mount looks certain to be one of those two players.

If United manage to secure the Chelsea midfielder in good time, it is expected that they will turn their focus towards bringing in a centre forward, with Randal Kolo Muani and Rasmus Hojlund in the picture.

However, Harry Kane seems unlikely at this stage, particularly given Real Madrid’s renewed interest as they prepare for life after Karim Benzema.

In addition to Mount, Erik ten Hag reportedly wants another midfielder and a new left winger. While a goalkeeper is also being sought, there are no plans to spend ‘significant money’ on the position, suggesting that United will only recruit a backup to David de Gea.

Overall, it seems that Manchester United are making moves in the transfer market with a clear plan in mind. While the valuation gap with Chelsea may be a stumbling block, United’s determination to land Mount could ultimately see them secure the talented midfielder. With a centre forward also on the agenda, United fans will be hopeful that the club can strengthen their squad significantly ahead of the new season.