MANCHESTER UNITED’S transfer chief is reportedly fuming with Chelsea over the Mason Mount transfer saga.
The Red Devils are keen to land the midfielder, 24, this summer as he enters the final 12 months of his Blues contract and has refused all extension offers.
But their three bids so far – for £40million, £50m and £55m – have all been rejected by the Stamford Bridge club.
And now the Manchester Evening News report that United’s football director John Murtough is growing increasingly frustrated with Chelsea.
He is said to be annoyed and taken a dim view of their policy to communicate the United bids through to the media.
To make matters worse, Todd Boehly continues to hold out for a whopping £65m for the 36-cap England international.
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The Chelsea owner would likely accept £58m with £7m in add-ons, too.
However, United may struggle to meet that fee with the MEN adding that Murtough’s “hands are tied” due to the financial state of the Old Trafford side.
The Red Devils do not think Mount is worth as much as Chelsea are demanding, especially given his desire to leave and short contract length.
And United know they cannot overspend – because their priority remains landing a new central striker.
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It is thought if the Mount negotiations fail with Chelsea to develop – personal terms have already been agreed – then Erik ten Hag has four possible alternatives to the midfielder lined up, although Mount is the favourite.
Ten Hag even held video calls with some transfer targets to discuss possible moves.
Declan Rice has previously been linked with Old Trafford.
But the West Ham skipper looks on course to join either Manchester City or Arsenal.
Adrien Rabiot, meanwhile, may opt to extend his contract at Juventus, with his current deal expiring on Friday.
Moises Caicedo of Brighton is another option – but he would not be cheap with the Seagulls rejecting an offer of £75m from Arsenal in January.
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
