Chelsea fans will undoubtedly be concerned with recent reports surrounding academy graduate Mason Mount, who looks increasingly likely to depart Stamford Bridge this summer. A contract dispute has been brewing for some time, and with concerns over salary and contract length, negotiations have stalled. The Blues are reportedly unwilling to allow talks to run into next season and are considering cashing in on the midfielder before his deal expires in 2024.
Last season, Mount was in fine form, netting 11 goals and providing 10 assists in the Premier League. However, this campaign has seen a drop in performance, with just three goals and two assists to his name so far. With a lack of consistency under both Thomas Tuchel and Graham Potter, Chelsea may be looking to move Mount on.
Manchester City, Liverpool, and Bayern Munich are among the elite-level clubs believed to be interested in the 24-year-old, should he become available. However, with the likes of Carney Chukwuemeka waiting in the wings, Chelsea may not have to search for a replacement.
Chukwuemeka, who was signed from Aston Villa for £20m during the summer of 2022, has struggled for regular game time this season, managing just 12 appearances totaling 241 minutes. However, the 19-year-old has been tipped as a potential replacement for Mount should he depart. With huge potential and an impressive reputation prior to his arrival, he could be the ideal heir for Mount at Chelsea next season.
The Blues’ attacking signings under Todd Boehly have not paid off, with just 30 goals in 31 top-flight fixtures this season. A fresh start with a new manager next season could mean opportunities for players like Chukwuemeka to impress and cement themselves as regular first-team players.
Ultimately, Chelsea will have to weigh up the benefits of keeping Mount versus cashing in on him and promoting promising young talent. Regardless of the outcome, it is sure to be an interesting summer transfer window for the Blues.
