Arsenal have held talks with Chelsea’s Mason Mount over a potential summer move, according to a report.

LONDON, ENGLAND: Mason Mount of Chelsea in action with Ainsley Maitland-Niles of Southampton during the Premier League match between Chelsea FC and Southampton FC at Stamford Bridge on February 18, 2023. (Photo by Julian Finney/Getty Images)
LONDON, ENGLAND: Mason Mount of Chelsea in action with Ainsley Maitland-Niles of Southampton during the Premier League match between Chelsea FC and Southampton FC at Stamford Bridge on February 18, 2023. (Photo by Julian Finney/Getty Images)

Goal report that Arsenal have held conversations with Chelsea midfielder Mason Mount, as they start to put their summer plans in place.

Arsenal are currently discussing a summer move for the England international, who has rejected a new contract at Stamford Bridge and is expected to leave Chelsea in the summer.

Mount still has a deal until 2024, but that will put him in his final year when July rolls around.

With Chelsea under financial strain after their spending spree and a likely lack of European football next season, they’re going to be forced to the table for his transfer.

Whether that’s to Arsenal remains to be seen, with Liverpool, Newcastle United, Manchester United, and Manchester City all keen as well, according to the Goal report.

But Arsenal are keeping close tabs on the situation and have held talks over Mount’s availability.

LONDON, ENGLAND: Mason Mount of Chelsea applauds the fans after their side's defeat in the UEFA Champions League quarterfinal second leg match between Chelsea FC and Real Madrid at Stamford Bridge on April 18, 2023. (Photo by Clive Rose/Getty Images)
LONDON, ENGLAND: Mason Mount of Chelsea applauds the fans after their side’s defeat in the UEFA Champions League quarterfinal second leg match between Chelsea FC and Real Madrid at Stamford Bridge on April 18, 2023. (Photo by Clive Rose/Getty Images)

Mount’s versatility in the final third seemingly makes him an appealing option, though Arsenal’s priority summer signing remains Declan Rice.

It’s unclear whether Arsenal would be looking to add both Rice and Mount to the squad, or whether Mount is viewed as an alternative option if the former transfer falls through.

The two midfielders obviously have different skill sets, and they could arguably fit in the same team together. But whether Arsenal are prepared to finance both moves remains to be seen.