Arsenal to rival Liverpool for Chelsea man and could boast best friend advantage

Chelsea star Mount is of huge interest to a number of sides home and abroad with his current deal at Stamford Bridge set to enter its final year.

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That makes the England midfielder potentially available at a cut price, with the Blues' bloated squad and wage demands suggesting Mount could be on his way.

Liverpool have been heavily linked with the 24-year-old as they look to construct a midfield rebuild this summer, but they could now face competition from Arsenal.

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Goal.com report that the Gunners have held talks with the player, with a number of other clubs including Newcastle and Manchester United thought to be keen.

Not only will Arsenal almost certainly be able to offer Champions League football when Liverpool likely won't, they may also boast Mount's best friend, Declan Rice.

West Ham captain Rice is understood to be Mikel Arteta's top target for the summer window with Arsenal keen to strengthen in midfield.

The news could come as a blow to Liverpool, who have already been ruled out of the running for Borussia Dortmund's Jude Bellingham.

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The cost of the England youngster and the need for multiple midfield purchases means the Reds will have to look elsewhere, with Mount on their list of targets.

Brighton duo Alexis Mac Allister and Moises Caicedo are reportedly of interested, as are Portugal internationals Joao Palhinha and Matheus Nunes.