Man Utd told to avoid Mount and sign France star instead

Cameron Smith

• 21 Feb 2023 22:15 GMT
• 3 min read

Manchester United have been urged to avoid signing Mason Mount this summer by former striker Louis Saha, despite uncertainty over his Chelsea future.

Mount, 24, is yet to sign a contract extension at Stamford Bridge, with the Englishman wanting to be rewarded for his form since being promoted into the first-team under Frank Lampard.

According to reports, Mount wants to be placed among Chelsea's highest earners, but the Blues have taken the decision to postpone extension talks until after the conclusion of the 2022/23 season in order for Graham Potter to focus on fixing their form. They have won just once in their past 10 games in all competitions.

READ: Five things Graham Potter must do to save Chelsea job

However, Saha doesn't think Man Utd should capitalise on Mount's unknown future at Chelsea.

The England international has most heavily been linked with a summer transfer to Liverpool, but Man Utd have also been touted for a move as they look for a long-term partner for Casemiro.

READ: Why Jorginho quit Chelsea for Arsenal

Saha told Lord Ping: “Mason Mount can fit in at any team, but I don’t think he’s had a great year at Chelsea and I’m not sure why he’d be linked more than he was before seeing as he was on fire last year.

"I don’t think he should move to United as he hasn’t been playing well. I think these rumours are coming from agents and I’m not going to blame the media, but moving for Mount is not the right call at the moment.”

Thuram to Man Utd?

While Saha does not think Mount would be a good addition for Man Utd, he believes that Borussia Monchengladbach star Marcus Thuram would be an excellent pick-up for Erik ten Hag.

The Old Trafford side are reportedly in the race for the Frenchman, who is available on a free transfer this summer.

Saha admitted: "Marcus Thuram is a terrific lad and a terrific player. Lots of energy, confidence, doesn’t think twice. He’s a dedicated player and the type of player that gives you guarantees with goals and assists.

"It’s not just because he’s a French lad, I really like the mentality of the player and he had a little issue last year but bounced back brilliantly to get into the World Cup. This guy is skilful and aware tactically, he’d be a great player for United.”