Liverpool 'waiting' to make sensational move for Chelsea star

Liverpool are preparing to make a surprise offer for Chelsea midfielder Mason Mount if he does not agree a new contract, according to reports.

Mount has recently returned to Stamford Bridge after playing at the World Cup with England, where he started the opening two group games for Gareth Southgate's side.

The Three Lions were knocked out in the quarter-finals, meaning the 23-year-old has now returned to Blues training, and will be in contention to take on Bournemouth when Chelsea's Premier League campaign resumes on December 27.

A key member of the squad for several seasons, Mount has two goals and two assists to his name this Premier League campaign.

But it is last season where the midfielder proved his full quality, netting on 11 occasions and adding another 10 assists in the league.

In fact, he has hit double figures for goals and assists in each of his three completed seasons for the Blues.

It would be a major shock, therefore, if Mount was to leave Stamford Bridge. But that could happen, with uncertainty over his future.

His current deal expires in 2024, and Chelsea are keen to extend it. But the Daily Mirror first carried reports of Liverpool's interest in the player last month, when it was claimed that the Blues had not offered Mount the wage he was looking for.

Therefore, should the Blues not be able to agree a deal, they may be forced into selling one of their star assets. And Jurgen Klopp's side are on red alert.

Liverpool 'waiting' on Mount offer

Journalist Simon Phillips told GiveMeSport: "There a lot of English clubs watching this [Mount contract] situation. Liverpool I know to be one of them.

"They're keeping an eye on it. If it's not going to be signed, they're going to be there waiting."

According to the Daily Mail, Mount rejected a £200,000-per-week contract to remain at Chelsea last month, and wants a wage closer to the £300,000-a-week reputedly earned by new signing Raheem Sterling.

Whether Liverpool could afford such a high wage themselves is unclear, but Mount would certainly add a new dimension to their midfield.

Alongside his work rate, energy and movement, Mount would also be a valuable goalscoring option - something which is lacking in Klopp's midfield at present.

The Reds may have to wait a while to seal a deal for the England international if an opportunity presents itself, but it may well be one worth taking.