3 reasons why Manchester United should stop pursuing Mason Mount

Chelsea have rejected the final bid of Manchester United for Mason Mount but both clubs are ready to find an amicable solution. Here is why Manchester United should walk away from the deal

According to recent reports, Chelsea have rejected the £55 million proposal of Manchester United for Mason Mount. The Stamford Bridge outfit has put a £65 million price tag on the Red Devils if they want to secure his services. However, Manchester United is reluctant to exceed their transfer budget for a player with just one year remaining on his contract.

The fans are divided over Chelsea’s stance on Mason Mount. Despite rejecting the deal, the Blues are ready to meet Manchester United representatives and find an amicable solution ahead of the new campaign.

Three reasons why Manchester United should walk away from the Mason Mount deal

#1) Mason Mount is in his final year of the contract and wants to leave

Mason Mount has been pushing for the transfer ever since the end of the 2022/23 campaign. The 24-year-old is set to enter the final year of his contract on July 1st while he has no intentions to sign a new deal at Stamford Bridge. Also, Chelsea has splurged huge money in the two previous transfer windows. In order to navigate the potential FFP issue, the Blues may need to consider cashing in on players, including Mason Mount, to alleviate any pressure that could arise from FFP scrutiny.

#2) Mount had a poor campaign

Mason Mount endured a challenging 2022/23 season, experiencing a significant decline in performance compared to his impressive 2021/22 campaign. The 24-year-old midfielder registered an impressive 21 goals and assists from 32 appearances in the English top flight during the 2021/22 season. However, in the following season, Mount’s impact diminished, managing only 5 goals and assists from 24 games. His pass completion rate also dropped from 78.1% to 75.2%, while his progressive passes per 90 minutes decreased from 6.24 to 5.36. Additionally, Mount’s contributions in other competitions were underwhelming, failing to make a significant impact. In other competitions, the player failed to leave any mark behind. The pelvis injury throughout the season did not aid his cause.

Comparatively, Manchester United midfielder Fred enjoyed a more fruitful campaign overall when considering all competitions. The Brazilian player contributed to 11 goals and assists throughout the season. While it is undeniable that Mount, being younger, possesses immense potential for a brighter future, it is essential for Manchester United to consider Fred’s value in the market. Fulham values the 30-year-old midfielder at £10 million, which serves as a crucial benchmark as the Old Trafford outfit prepares for negotiations.

(Stats via fbref)

#3) Priority targets are yet to be filled and there are better alternatives

Manchester United find themselves with a list of priorities this summer as they aim to strengthen their squad in key areas. Among their targets are a ball-playing goalkeeper, a prolific striker, and a midfielder. The Red Devils have been linked with potential signings such as Andre Onana and Diogo Costa to bolster their goalkeeping options, as they contemplate the future of David de Gea.

Amongst the attackers, Victor Osimhen and Rasmus Hojlund are two prolific strikers that Old Trafford wants. None of these players would come cheap and Manchester United would end up stretching themselves over the budget.

On the other hand, there are better alternatives to fill the midfield position. The likes of Declan Rice and Moises Caicedo are available in the transfer window and the club is linked with them. Of particular interest is Caicedo, who could provide cover for Casemiro at a price that aligns with Chelsea’s asking price for Mason Mount.

Should Manchester United increase their bid to secure Mason Mount or wait till January to get him at a discount price? Have your say below