Liverpool’s quest for midfield reinforcements has been nothing short of a roller-coaster.
The Reds began by setting their sights on the in-demand Jude Bellingham, with reports even suggesting that Jurgen Klopp’s side were intending to base their entire project around the 19-year-old.
They made their intentions obvious by refusing to sign a replacement for Gini Wijnaldum, a move which has directly impacted their performances this season.
Despite not being the soundest of decisions, it would’ve all been overlooked had Liverpool been successful in their chase for Bellingham.
And while nothing is set in stone just yet, the Reds look increasingly likely to miss out on the England International.
The bombshell was delivered by a number of reputable sources, all conveying that Liverpool have effectively been priced out of the transfer by Dortmund’s demands.
🚨 As things stand, Liverpool increasingly unlikely to sign Jude Bellingham this summer. Expected price & financial power of rivals puts #LFC hopes in doubt. Pursuit not off & no firm decisions but sense is #MCFC + #RMFC in stronger position @TheAthleticFChttps://t.co/c2bayXcnGq
With their primary target now out of reach, the club have begun looking elsewhere for alternatives, with one of their shortlisted candidates being Chelsea’s Mason Mount.
The Cobham graduate has enjoyed a stellar rise up the ranks, beginning with a solid 2019/20 campaign under the management of Frank Lampard.
His performances improved further in the subsequent season, one that saw him deliver a Champions League-winning assist and win the Chelsea Player of the Year title.
Mount’s impressive run of form continued in the following season, as he picked a second consecutive Chelsea POTY title.
Unfortunately, the ongoing season hasn’t fared so well for the midfielder.
A loss of form mixed with physical burnout due to excessive playing time has seen the midfielder drop down the pecking order at Stamford Bridge.
The 24-year-old has also disappointed a section of Blues fans through his ongoing contract tussle with the club. Mount’s current contract is all set to expire in 2024, and so far, chances of an extension appear slim.
As per reports, the two parties seem to disagree on the matter of wages and contract length, with Mount unwilling to commit to a contract beyond the term of 5 years.
Money talks and Mason Mount looks increasingly likely to join Liverpool, while there will be plenty of takers for Trevoh Chalobah, Conor Gallagher and Colwill. Suitors may be more scarce for Ruben Loftus-Cheek because of his injury record.
The Guardian journo Jacon Steiberg
And since talks have reached an impasse, other clubs have begun throwing their hat in the ring for his signature, one of those clubs being Liverpool.
The club see Mount as the ideal candidate for the RCM role, and by extension, a perfect replacement for Jordan Henderson.
While their profiles differ in numerous areas, both players bring similarly high work rates and energy to their sides, which suits Jurgen Klopp’s style of play extremely well.
Aside from aiding their aggressive philosophy, Mount’s versatility will enable Liverpool to create lethal overloads on either side, especially if he is given the freedom to roam. His innate ability to find pockets of space in between opposition lines could also allow him to play as an advanced playmaker if required.
In summary, Mount possesses a large number of qualities that Liverpool are currently looking for, and as such, the move certainly makes sense.
Be that as it may, the club will still need to agree a fee with Chelsea for the move to come to fruition, the fee itself will likely land in the £50m+ range.
