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Liverpool target 'plays last game' for current side
Liverpool target Mason Mount has ‘played his last game’ for Chelsea.
During a press conference, the Blues’ interim manager Frank Lampard confirmed that Reece James and Mount will likely be ruled out for the rest of the season with injuries.
Lampard, who has suffered four defeats from his first four matches in charge at Stamford Bridge, spoke ahead of his side’s clash against Brentford.
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“Reece James unavailable. Probably for the season. Mason Mount is probably the same. Potential for the last game but probably not. Kai [Havertz] won't be available tomorrow,” Lampard said.
Right-back James has been sidelined since sustaining a hamstring injury against Real Madrid, a strain he picked up in the second-leg of their Champions League quarter-final clash last week.
Meanwhile, Mount will be out for the season, after the England international underwent surgery over an ongoing abdominal issue.
The attacker has been with the Blues since the age of six, but he has not yet agreed to extend his deal with the club. His current deal expires in 2024 - so either his club sell him this window or they risk him leaving on a free next year.
FootballTransfers linked the Reds to the attacker earlier this year - while other outlets have confirmed him as a key target.
Reports said recently that Blues co-owner Todd Boehly reportedly held direct talks with the player last week over his future.
The discussion was thought to be positive - but the general feeling is still that he leave the side in the upcoming window - with Jurgen Klopp’s side considered huge favourites to take on Mount.
Lampard has formed a good relationship with Mount from stints at both Chelsea and Derby, but it is unlikely that he will stay on as the manager of the club beyond the end of the season.
Co-controlling owners Boehly and Behdad Eghbali are seeking a permanent successor to Graham Potter, and Mauricio Pochettino is believed to be the favourite.