Liverpool and other Premier League clubs are ready to test Chelsea's resolve over Mason Mount in the summer, a report has claimed.
Mount is out of contract with Chelsea in 2024 and talks have stalled over an extension 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.
Talks are ongoing between Mount and Chelsea but 'little progress has been made', according to the Evening Standard.
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Mount is currently one of the lowest-paid senior players at Stamford Bridge and wants a salary similar to his England teammates.
But the report claims Chelsea are yet to offer those terms – pointing to the security that longer deals have given the club's eight January signings, who earn on average around £70,000 per week.
Liverpool are among a group of clubs monitoring the situation and could make an approach for Mount in the summer if he has not yet signed a new deal.
While Chelsea are keen to keep Mount, they may be forced to sell him this summer – rather than losing him on a free transfer next summer.
The Reds could face competition for his signature, however, with other top Premier League clubs ready to 'test Chelsea's resolve', the report has claimed.
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, Liverpool, Chelsea, Football, Premier League, Transfers
Rory O'Callaghan