Manchester United are reportedly planning to approach Chelsea before the end of the week to discuss a deal for Mason Mount during this summer's transfer window.
The England international's contract at Stamford Bridge is due to expire next summer, and he is widely expected to leave the Blues in the upcoming market despite incoming head coach Mauricio Pochettino being keen to keep hold of him.
Arsenal and Liverpool have both been heavily linked with the attacker, but Man United have recently emerged as the favourites to purchase the 24-year-old.
Mount has allegedly already come to an agreement with the club over personal terms, and according to Sky Sports News, the 20-time English champions are now planning to approach Chelsea to discuss a transfer fee.
The report claims that the Red Devils 'have been encouraged by his complicated situation' at Chelsea, with the Blues not believed to be willing to meet his wage demands on a potential new deal.
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The Englishman struggled to show his best form for the Blues during the 2022-23 campaign, only managing three goals and six assists in 35 appearances in all competitions.
However, he struggled with injury in the second half of the season and ultimately underwent an operation on his pelvis, which ruled him out of the team's last seven league matches of the campaign.
Mount came through the youth system at Stamford Bridge, spending time out on loan with Vitesse and Derby County, before returning to Chelsea to become a first-team regular.
The attacker has scored 27 Premier League goals for the Blues, including 11 last season, while he is also an important player for England, netting five times in 36 caps for his country.
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Chelsea's valuation of Mount is believed to be around £85m, which is £30m more than Man United are prepared to pay, so there could be lengthy negotiations before a deal is agreed.
The Englishman could potentially become Erik ten Hag's first signing of what is expected to be a busy summer transfer window for the Red Devils.
Mount's close friend, Declan Rice, remains a leading midfield target, with the West Ham United captain preparing to leave the London Stadium this summer.
Meanwhile, Tottenham Hotspur's Harry Kane is still thought to be Man United's leading attacking target.
A new goalkeeper would also be required if David de Gea is unable to reach an agreement over a new deal, while Napoli's Kim Min-jae is thought to be the club's leading defensive target, with Harry Maguire expected to be allowed to leave this summer due to his struggles for action.
Matt Law
