Reds look at options for a man in middle

UNITED are considering alternatives amid the growing uncertainty over a possible summer move for Mason Mount

- RICHARD FAY

United agreed personal terms with the 24-year-old last month, but despite his desire to move, there has been little progress made in reaching an agreement with Chelsea.

The London club is holding out for a fee close to £65million after rejecting United’s third bid, believed to be valued at £55million.

United are unhappy with Chelsea, who they believe are overvaluing Mount given he is out of contract next year, and though their own bargaining position is weakened by a tight budget, they do not want to compromise amid their intention to sign a striker.

M.E.N Sport understands United have at least four other midfield targets to turn to, having finalised a long list of targets per position in April, and we’ve taken a look at those who could be targeted in the coming weeks.

■ MOISES CAICEDO

The leading name on the list is arguably that of Brighton star Caicedo. United were working on a EUR6million deal to sign the Ecuadorian youngster in December 2020, but discussions were compromised by the involvement of various intermediaries, and he eventually moved to Brighton.