Liverpool ‘aware’ their transfer target prefers to join Manchester United

Manchester United are a point away from ending Liverpool’s hopes of Champions League football for next season, and could seal their fate on Thursday night against Chelsea.

The Red Devils may also impact Liverpool‘s plans of strengthening their midfield, as they prepare for another meeting with the London outfit concerning the transfer of Mason Mount.

Mount, a graduate of the Chelsea Academy, is edging towards an exit this summer due to uncertainty over his contract at Stamford Bridge. His current deal is due to expire at the end of the next campaign.

Pochettino wants Manchester United target to stay at Chelsea

It is understood that incoming manager Mauricio Pochettino wants the England international to continue at the club, but so far Chelsea have not managed to make much progress in their attempts – that began last summer –  to agree to a new long-term deal. This has heightened the possibility of Mount departing at the end of the season.

In March, the Athletic claimed Liverpool were leading the ‘list of domestic suitors’ for Mount.

But it is now being reported that Jurgen Klopp’s transfer target is leaning towards a move to Manchester United, with interested clubs already aware of his preference. Talks between United and Chelsea are expected in due course.

Mount hasn’t had a good season, but that has been the case with almost every player at Chelsea, who sit 12th on the league table at the tail end of the season. But his technical ability and off the ball work are admired by several Premier League clubs, including Arsenal.

Injuries haven’t helped the tenacious midfielder either, and he will miss the away fixture against United, who are in the driving seat to secure Champions League qualification as well as become Mount’s next home.