Berbatov claims Pochettino will attempt to block Man Utd transfer

Dimitar Berbatov believes Chelsea manager Mauricio Pochettino will look to block Manchester United’s transfer move for Mason Mount. 

 The Red Devils have made two unsuccessful offers for the England star, who has stalled over signing a new contract as he enters the last 12 months of his contract at Stamford Bridge. 

  Manchester United’s second offer was around £50m but Chelsea are holding out for £70million as they look to recoup some of the £600m they spent on transfers over the past one year. 

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While Mount had a poor 2022-23 season, he has been a mainstay in the Chelsea team for the past four years and helped his club win the UEFA Champions League under Thomas Tuchel. 

  Berbatov says Mount would be a ‘good option’ for his former side but reckons there could be a twist in the transfer race when Pochettino takes over at Chelsea in July. 

 ‘I was surprised at Mason’s lack of game time at Chelsea last season,’ the former United player told Betfred. 

 ‘I’m not certain of the reasons behind this, but now we have to see if Mauricio Pochettino can convince Mason to stay at Stamford Bridge and whether he will be desperate to keep him at Chelsea. 

 ‘Mauricio will want to speak to all the players in the squad and see where they are mentally and whether they want to commit to doing their best for Chelsea next season. Decisions will be made once these conversations are held.

‘Ultimately, I believe Pochettino would like to keep Mason at Chelsea because he’s a good player. ‘If not, then if Mason decides to join Manchester United, then I believe he would be a good option in their squad. 

 ‘People will say that Manchester United already have Bruno Fernandes in Mason’s position, but the season is a marathon and Manchester United will be competing in the Premier League, the Champions League and the other cup competitions, so you need a lot of quality in your squad if you’re going to compete on all fronts.