Chelsea send Man Utd back with tail between their legs after immediate rejection of opening Mason Mount bid

Chelsea have reportedly “immediately rejected” Manchester United’s opening bid for midfielder Mason Mount from their Premier League rivals.

The Red Devils are said to have offered £40million as their opening gambit for the England star, although it’s claimed that privately they know exactly what they are prepared to play for the Stamford Bridge man.

Sky Sports claims that United are looking at a number of other midfielders and would be prepared to walk away from any deal.

Mount currently has one year left on his contract in west London and there is a growing feeling he wants to make the move north.

But United have a price in mind for the 24-year-old and will not pay over the odds for the Chelsea academy graduate as he heads into the final year of his deal.

Brighton star Moises Caicedo remains another option for the Red Devils, although he tends to play a slightly different midfield role than Mount.

Indeed, Sky Sports adds that United have asked to be “kept informed” on any developments regarding the future of the in-demand 21-year-old.

United are also keen on West Ham skipper Declan Rice, but the England man looks almost certain to remain in London and join rivals Arsenal instead.

New striker remains top United priority

For now though, United’s top priority signing is expected to be that of a new central striker.

And while a move for Tottenham’s Harry Kane now looks off the cards, the Red Devils still have a number of other options up their sleeve.

Atalanta’s Rasmus Hojlund is known to be a major target for Erik ten Hag.

The 20-year-old is picking up comparisons with Haaland due to his effectiveness in front of goal, despite his tender age.

This season, Hojlund notched 16 goals in 42 matches, as well as chipping in with seven assists.

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