Pochettino demands Chelsea to restart contract talks with forgotten star

Cameron Smith

• Updated: 12 May 2023 10:30 BST
• 3 min read

Mason Mount is seen as a major player in Mauricio Pochettino’s plans at Chelsea, but the England international is still yet to sign a contract extension at Stamford Bridge and has not started a game since February.

The 24-year-old is out of contract next summer and has been locked in a contract dispute with the club for months. Mount believes his performances since emerging into the first-team under Frank Lampard in 2019 warrant a salary that matches the highest-earners at Chelsea.

However, Todd Boehly is reportedly unwilling to meet the Englishman’s demands and developments regarding a new deal have not progressed, with neither wanting to compromise.

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The uncertainty surrounding his future has enticed Liverpool, who have been pursuing his signature for several months in their search for a new midfielder. With Jude Bellingham set to reject a move to Anfield in favour of joining Real Madrid, it’s been reported that Mount is among Jurgen Klopp’s preferred signings, along with Brighton’s Alexis Mac Allister.

Reports suggest that Mount wants to stay at Chelsea, while the club want to keep him but, despite this, an agreement is no closer to being made. Arsenal and Newcastle are also keen on the midfielder, but Liverpool retain the strongest interest.

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Mount wanted by Pochettino

Although Boehly appears unwilling to succumb to Mount’s contract wishes, he may be persuaded if he wants Pochettino to take over.

According to the Evening Standard, the former Tottenham Hotspur boss is a huge admirer of Mount and believes he will be a key part of Chelsea’s rebuild next season.

Pochettino is set to ask the hierarchy at Stamford Bridge to restart contract negotiations with Mount when his appointment as the club’s new head coach is confirmed, according to the report.

However, with just one year left on his current deal, Chelsea are reportedly ready to sell Mount this summer if contract talks don’t progress, in order to avoid losing him on a free transfer in 2024.

Mount has suffered multiple injury problems this campaign, and has contributed just three goals and six assists in 35 appearances in all competitions. But, he has only made one appearance since February due to a pelvic injury.