Manchester United have reportedly made enquiries into the availability of three players as they consider alternatives to signing Mason Mount from Chelsea. The Blues have rejected three bids from United for the England international, with the latest offer of £50 million plus £5 million in add-ons turned away on Friday. Chelsea countered with a proposal worth £65 million, £58 million plus £7 million in add-ons, which United are not willing to pay, leaving the move in major doubt. As a result, United are now moving onto other targets, with Moises Caicedo, Mohammed Kudus and Taylor Booth all on their shortlist.
Who are the potential alternatives?
Moises Caicedo is a 19-year-old midfielder who currently plays for Brighton. He is expected to be significantly more expensive than Mount, having recently extended his contract until 2028. However, United feel a fee of £80 million would be justified for a player of the Ecuadorian’s potential.
Mohammed Kudus is a 22-year-old midfielder who currently plays for Ajax. He starred under Erik ten Hag at Ajax before the manager’s move to Manchester last year and has been linked with a number of Premier League sides, with Brighton also joining the race for his signature.
Taylor Booth is a 22-year-old midfielder who currently plays for FC Utrecht. He scored twice and provided four assists in 23 Eredivisie appearances last season as Utrecht finished in seventh place. He is also an international player for the USA.
Why is Mason Mount not moving to United?
United have left their latest £55 million offer on the table but the move remains at an impasse, with the club frustrated with Chelsea’s demands. The Manchester club believes their valuation is fair and are not prepared to overpay for a player who will be available on a free transfer next year. Chelsea, on the other hand, are keen to keep hold of Mount and have countered with a proposal worth £65 million.
What does this mean for Chelsea?
While Chelsea are keen to keep hold of Mount, they have agreed to sell Mateo Kovacic to Manchester City for £30 million. The Croatian is another player in the final year of his contract in west London. Chelsea’s squad clear-out continues, with the club set to terminate the contract of a club legend.
Conclusion
Manchester United’s pursuit of Mason Mount has hit a stumbling block, with Chelsea rejecting three bids for the player. As a result, United are now considering other options, with Moises Caicedo, Mohammed Kudus and Taylor Booth all on their shortlist. While Chelsea are keen to keep hold of Mount, they have agreed to sell Mateo Kovacic to Manchester City for £30 million. The Croatian is another player in the final year of his contract in west London.