Bayern Munich could hijack Liverpool's approach for Mason Mount this summer, it has been claimed.
Mount is out of contract with Chelsea in 2024 and talks have stalled over a new long-term deal for the 24-year-old.
The England international, who has been named Chelsea's Player of the Season in the last two campaigns, has reportedly rejected the offer of a seven-year deal with the player unhappy with the terms offered.
Mount is currently one of the lowest-paid senior players at Stamford Bridge and wants a salary similar to his England teammates.
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If a breakthrough isn't reached, Chelsea could be forced to sell Mount this summer rather than losing him for free at the end of next season.
Liverpool are expected to make an offer for Mount and, according to talkSPORT journalist Alex Crook, are 'likely' to sign him.
"Contract talks have been at a standstill for some time. And I think Liverpool is his most likely destination," said Crook.
However, the Reds' expected approach for Mount could be scuppered by German champions Bayern Munich.
The Telegraph claim newly-appointed Bayern boss Thomas Tuchel is keen to reunite with Mount in Bavaria.
Tuchel, who replaced Julian Nagelsmann as manager last week, is said to be a 'strong admirer' of Mount, who he considered a key player in his Champions League-winning Chelsea team of 2021.
The report claims Bayern are already attempting to poach the Chelsea assistant coach Anthony Barry, who worked with Tuchel and remained in place when Graham Potter was appointed as manager at Stamford Bridge.
The two clubs are locked in talks over a compensation package, while a mutual agreement has been made that Barry remains away from Chelsea until a solution is reached.
What has Mount said?
Mount has kept tight-lipped about his future with negotiations ongoing.
Speaking before the World Cup in Qatar, Mount was asked about the possibility of him leaving Chelsea – the club that has been his home for 18 years.
"I have always been so focused on my football since I was in the academy," Mount told the Evening Standard in November.
"I know now there is a lot more media focus on me, but I do not look too much into that. I block it out."
Topics: Mason Mount, Chelsea, Liverpool, Football, Transfers, Premier League
Rory O'Callaghan