Mount 'no closer to signing new Chelsea contract'

The England international has been with Chelsea since the age of eight, but his long-term future with the club has been a hot topic for a number of months.

Mount's current deal is set to expire in the summer of 2024 and talks over a new contract have proven to be difficult.

A recent report claimed that Chelsea have made progress in negotiations and were growing increasingly confident of tying him down to a long-term deal.

However, according to The Standard, the two parties are no closer to reaching an agreement over a new contract.

Mount wants to receive a pay increase that reflects his status at the club and brings him in line with other senior members of the Chelsea squad.

The Chelsea academy graduate is also keen to receive assurances about his role in the side and the direction that the club is going in.

The report suggests that discussions over a new contract are also being complicated by issues surrounding the player's image rights.

Mauricio Pochettino is widely expected to be appointed Chelsea's new head coach, and he views Mount as an important part of his plans.

As a result, the former Tottenham Hotspur boss is expected to urge the club to come to prioritise contract negotiations with Mount once he is named manager.

If an agreement is unable to be reached then Chelsea will listen to offers during the summer window rather than risk losing him on a free transfer next year.

Arsenal and Newcastle United have both been linked with the midfielder, but Liverpool are thought to be the favourite to secure his signature should he depart Stamford Bridge.

Mount, who has been ruled out for the rest of the season with a pelvic injury, has registered three goals and six assists in 36 appearances this term.