Liverpool are still in the running for Mason Mount, despite Manchester United stepping up their own bid to sign him.
Mount had previously been named as a top priority for Liverpool in the coming transfer market. But that perhaps changed last night, with reports suggesting that United are now front-runners to sign him from Chelsea. With Erik ten Hag installing him as a key target, there was a feeling Liverpool would be out of the race.
According to The Athletic today though, that may not be the case. They claim that although Mount himself ‘favours’ a move to Old Trafford, the Reds – as well as Arsenal – shouldn’t be counted out just yet.
It’s reported that Liverpool’s interest is the longest-standing of the trio, and they ‘can’t be ruled out’ for the time being.
However, any move does seem to hinge on whether United can agree on terms with Chelsea. The implication is that this is far from a certainty. But in any case, should the Old Trafford club fail to do a deal, only then will Liverpool will be back in the picture.
Liverpool readjust their priorities
Liverpool may not be officially out of the running for Mount but, internally, they’ll surely now be readjusting their radar.
One of the main conditions for the Reds’ business this summer appears to be getting deals done early. With so many teams at the table for the England man, and with him favouring a move elsewhere, Liverpool should walk away. There are potentially better players out there than Mount who will come with less baggage and less of a price-tag.
If they were ready to up and walk away from their years-long pursuit of Jude Bellingham, then it shouldn’t be a problem to do the same here.
For some, that will be a great disappointment. There was a time not too long ago when Liverpool appeared to have a genuine chance of signing both England internationals.
Certainly, they’d give Jurgen Klopp’s midfield the freshness it badly needs.
But there will be others who won’t even bat an eyelid. Liverpool have a long list of targets this summer and will no doubt land on one who is a) an immediate upgrade on Klopp’s current options and b) wants to join the club. Mount may be the former, but it looks like he isn’t the latter. Not right now anyway.
And frankly, if you’d rather join United than Liverpool, then even if that move doesn’t go through, you’ve blown your chance at a move to Anfield. We move on, Reds.