EXCL: Mount to Utd likely to get done, Caicedo fee closer to £70+10m (Utd not serious), Nothing sceptical about Saudi deals, Why domestic outgoings are key, Multi club news...
The Ben Jacobs Chelsea FC column!
It feels like a big week for Chelsea, regarding both Mason Mount and their pursuit of Moises Caicedo as well.
If Mason Mount is to leave Chelsea, then ideally the club would like it done before the end of the month so they can put the transfer on this financial year.
It's been difficult for Mason Mount, and we're hearing all kinds of stories and sides. We mustn't forget the reality, which is that Mason Mount has been Chelsea through and through since he was a kid, and a fantastic player for the football club. Whether he stays or goes, and regardless of last season's dip in form, that will remain the case.
At the time I'm writing this, Manchester United haven't walked away, but they're not going to overpay. And this has always been the case. As I exclusively revealed six weeks ago, Manchester United's top-end valuation has always been £60m. So now we need to wait and see whether or not the sides can find some kind of compromise. But Manchester United are clear, they will only sign Mount on their terms and won’t meet Chelsea’s £58+7m counter. I still think there is a high likelihood a transfer gets done.
It is not true Bayern have entered the race for Mount at this point either. And I don’t see Manchester United seriously turning their attention to Moises Caicedo despite a historical interest. Even if they wanted him, it’s not a priority position and the fee will likely prove too high for them. It’s all games and the situation should be a whole lot clearer by the end of this week.
Keep reading with a 7-day free trial
Subscribe to Si Phillips Talks Chelsea to keep reading this post and get 7 days of free access to the full post archives.