Klopp panic over as Liverpool remain firm favourites to beat Arsenal to proven Premier League playmaker

Jurgen Klopp Leeds v Liverpool

Jurgen Klopp celebrates Liverpool win over Leeds

Liverpool are still the frontrunners to sign a top Premier League playmaker this summer, despite reports emerging of Arsenal’s interest in the out-of-favor Chelsea man.

England star Mason Mount is expected to be a man in demand this summer, having failed to hold down a regular starting spot under Thomas Tuchel, Graham Potter and now Frank Lampard this season.

Jurgen Klopp is known to be a big admirer of Mount and has been closely monitoring developments over the player’s future at Stamford Bridge.

Mount’s performance levels have dropped this season compared to previous campaigns, although he’s not really had the opportunities to display his talents under three different Chelsea managers.

Reports emerged on Saturday that Arsenal have had discussions over a potential move to The Emirates. However, transfer insider Fabrizio Romano claims that the Reds are still at the front of the queue for Mount’s signature.

“Despite reported interest from Arsenal in Mason Mount, Liverpool remain the favourites for the Chelsea midfielder as they consider Mount one of the priorities,” Romano told CaughtOffside.

“But it all depends on Chelsea new deal negotiations and also the Chelsea manager situation. I think it’s not about Champions League football, it’s about the project; the real timing for Mount decision will be May/June, not now for sure.”

Next Chelsea manager pivotal to Mount future

As Romano mentions, however, there is still slim hope that Mount could actually extend his stay in west London.

Much will, of course, depend on who comes through the door as Chelsea’s next manager.

Several names continue to be linked with the role, although it appears that both Julian Nagelsmann and Luis Enrique are out of the running.

Vincent Kompany could also be out of the reckoning as Burnley try to tie the Belgian down to a new deal after he led them to promotion this season.

A surprise candidate did emerge on Saturday though in the form of Celtic chief  Ange Postecoglou.

But whatever happens with the next Chelsea manager, it appears that Mount’s future continues to hang by a thread and Liverpool are ready to cut the player lose.

The Reds are back in action on Wednesday evening when they head to West Ham in the Premier League.

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