Manchester United transfer news now: Manchester United have been able to complete their first signing of the summer
According to The Athletic, Manchester United and Chelsea have come to an agreement for the transfer of midfielder Mason Mount. The deal is said to be for a duration of five years. After several rounds of negotiations, Chelsea has accepted United’s third offer, which includes a base fee of 55 million pounds and an additional 5 million pounds in potential add-ons.
The player, who came from the Chelsea academy, played his first game in 2017 and has since scored 33 goals and assisted in 37 goals in a total of 195 matches for the club in various competitions.
Mason Mount, who also had temporary stints at Vitesse Arnhem and Derby County, contributed to Chelsea’s victories in the Champions League, UEFA Super Cup, and FIFA Club World Cup. In the previous season, Mount participated in 24 league matches, scoring three goals and providing two assists, although he faced difficulties due to a pelvic injury.
Mount’s performance declined in the just ended season as he only scored three goals and provided two assists in Premier League matches, whereas in the previous season under Tuchel, he had scored 11 goals and provided 10 assists. The primary factor behind his disappointing season is the fact that he has been playing in a dysfunctional and underperforming Chelsea team.
However, Mount is an exceptionally versatile attacking midfielder. He possesses a wide range of skills and excels when he is the focal point of a team, entrusted with significant responsibilities and involved in every aspect of the game.
It is uncertain where he would specifically fit in at United, but he has the ability to play in various positions in Ten Hag’s 4-3-3 formation. He could be considered a more energetic and athletic number 8 compared to Christian Eriksen, offering a greater goal-scoring threat from midfield. Alternatively, he could play as a narrow 10 on either wing, coming inside to receive the ball between the lines while Jadon Sancho or Marcus Rashford take on a more direct approach on the other side.
Mason Mount must ensure that the challenges he faced this season do not have a lasting impact. It is crucial for him to avoid another forgettable season in the future. Manchester United must ensure that they are acquiring the player who excelled under Tuchel and became an important player for England, rather than the one who struggled this season.