In a landmark deal worth approximately £60 million ($75.7m), Manchester United has secured a definitive agreement with Chelsea for Mason Mount's transfer. After several rejected bids, the final arrangement involves an initial payment of £55 million along with £5 million linked to complex additional clauses.
Mount, 24, is set to finalize his personal terms and undergo medical tests, clearing the path for him to sign a contract with United, extending until 2028, with an option for an additional year. This agreement marks the culmination of prolonged negotiations that at one point seemed likely to break down over the financial details.
An England international, Mount has a solid performance history with Chelsea, scoring 33 goals in 195 appearances since his debut in 2017. Despite his record, his contract negotiations with the club have faltered, leading to his decision to switch camps.
However, some experts believe that Mount's transfer should be viewed with caution, as it may not immediately provide the upgrade United seeks. His role might be to fill in the gap left by Christian Eriksen next to Casemiro, where he could offer similar forward passing and set-piece delivery, while bolstering the team's defensive intensity.
The rationale behind United's pursuit of Mount is clear: they are seeking a young talent who can provide both offensive and defensive benefits. However, the question remains whether surpassing Eriksen or other United midfielders will be sufficient for the club's long-term ambitions.
In other news, United continues to negotiate with Atalanta for striker Rasmus Hojlund, despite valuation disagreements. Additionally, United has its sights set on a new goalkeeper, with Inter Milan's Andre Onana as one of the potential targets. However, the cost may be prohibitive, prompting United to explore other options. Concurrently, talks persist with David de Gea over a contract renewal, as his current agreement expires.
Jonathan Liew of The Guardian opined on the matter, asserting that United undoubtedly has the upper hand in the deal. Liew stated, "United are getting a player who is still young, who is an international, who can play lots of different roles and has an incredible attitude and work-rate in attack and defence."
This transfer, according to Liew, underscores the internal turmoil at Chelsea and illustrates the club's inability to retain a homegrown talent such as Mount. He believes that Mount's decision to join United is indicative of the stability and longevity the club offers.
