Arsenal looking to Mason Mount as Martin Odegaard back-up

Arsenal are weighing up a move for Chelsea midfielder Mason Mount, reports journalist David Ornstein.

The Gunners have enjoyed an encouraging campaign. They currently sit in second place in the Premier League, and have secured a return to the Champions League after six years out.

However, despite leading the league for large parts of the season, it is looking likely that they will end without silverware. Manager Mikel Arteta opted to prioritise the league over other competitions, leading to early exits in the Carabao Cup, FA Cup, and Europa League.

While the north Londoners have a strong starting XI, their back-up options aren’t up to the same standard. This has handed rivals Manchester City the advantage in the title race, allowing them to rest and rotate without significantly weakening their side.

Consequently, Arsenal will be looking to strengthen in the summer. According to The Athletic’s David Ornstein, Chelsea playmaker Mason Mount is admired by the Gunners.

Mount came through the academy at Chelsea, signing his first professional contract in 2017. Following loan spells at Vitesse and Derby County, he earned his place as a starter at Stamford Bridge under Frank Lampard in 2019.

Since then, he has become something of a fan favourite with the Blues. He won back-to-back Chelsea Player of the Year awards in 2020/21 and 2021/22, and assisted Kai Havertz’s winning goal in the 2021 Champions League final.

But the England international has struggled to find his best form this season. In 35 outings in all competitions, he has registered just three goals and three assists.

Mount’s contract expires in 2024, and negotiations over a renewal have stalled. This has cast his future at Stamford Bridge into doubt, with the club possibly looking to sell him while he still has value.

Should Arsenal make a move for the 24-year-old, they will face strong competition for his signature. Liverpool have been heavily linked with a swoop, while Manchester United and Bayern Munich have also been named as potential suitors.