Dimitar Berbatov fires Mason Mount transfer warning at Manchester United
Former Manchester United striker Dimitar Berbatov believes there is still a chance that Chelsea manager Mauricio Pochettino could block Mason Mount from sealing a proposed move to Old Trafford.
United have identified the England international as one of their primary targets this summer and lodged a second bid for his signature earlier this week. Mount has already agreed personal terms to make the switch to Old Trafford, meaning all that is left to be agreed upon is the transfer fee between the two clubs.
It is understood that the Reds’ latest offer for the 24-year-old was worth up to £50million, paying £45m up-front and then a further £5m in add-ons. Chelsea, however, are holding out for around £15m more as part of the up-front fee.
Mount wants to leave Stamford Bridge this summer and make the switch to Old Trafford, a move that would mark his first permanent transfer of his career. He has been at Chelsea since 2005.
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However, former United ace Berbatov reckons incoming Chelsea boss Pochettino, who is set to officially take charge from the start of next week, may want to retain the Portsmouth-born midfielder and make the most of his talent.
“I was surprised at Mason’s lack of game time at Chelsea last season,” Berbatov told Betfred. “I’m not certain of the reasons behind this, but now we have to see if Mauricio Pochettino can convince Mason to stay at Stamford Bridge and whether he will be desperate to keep him at Chelsea.
“Mauricio will want to speak to all the players in the squad and see where they are mentally and whether they want to commit to doing their best for Chelsea next season. Decisions will be made once these conversations are held.
“Ultimately, I believe Pochettino would like to keep Mason at Chelsea because he’s a good player. If not, then if Mason decides to join Manchester United, then I believe he would be a good option in their squad.”
United want to fresh up their midfield options this summer with the addition of someone who can provide fresh energy. However, while some figures have questioned whether Mount is the right candidate, Berbatov believes he would be a good addition to Erik ten Hag’s squad.
Berbatov added: “People will say that United already have Bruno Fernandes in Mason’s position, but the season is a marathon and United will be competing in the Premier League, the Champions League and the other cup competitions, so you need a lot of quality in your squad if you’re going to compete on all fronts.”