Chelsea step up Mount contract talks to keep Liverpool away

Mason Mount and Chelsea are yet to agree to a contract extension but the Blues are working hard to resolve that as Liverpool prepare to pounce this summer.

There are 18 months remaining on Mount's contract and Chelsea who are considering making an increased offer for Brighton's Moises Caicedo are yet to meet Mount's wage demands.

According to The Guardian, Liverpool, who are planning a rebuild of their midfield, are prepared to act on their interest in the England international if the situation drags on.

Chelsea are expected to fight as hard as possible to keep Mount as losing him to one of their biggest rivals would be hugely unpopular with the supporters.

 The Club remains optimistic that they can persuade him to stay. Since breaking into Chelsea's squad in 2019, Mount has been one of the team's top performers and is adored by the fans.

However, Mount, whose £75,000-a-week wage makes him one of the lower earners, wants Chelsea to prove they value him. There is a risk of the club making one of their most dedicated players feel underappreciated. 

Chelsea are willing to make Mount a sizeable offer, though terms would need to be pitched at a reasonable level. Talks are due to resume and Chelsea are ready to be as generous as possible.

Chelsea would need to make a much-improved offer to Mount before the season ends to avoid a situation that drags on. Liverpool are monitoring proceedings closely and have been putting plans in place for a summer move. 

Liverpool, who host Chelsea on Saturday, are keen to refresh their midfield. Jurgen Klopp’s side have slipped to ninth place in the Premier League, level on points with Chelsea, and are now in danger of failing to qualify for the Champions League.