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FootballWhere Will Mason Mount Play? Three Ways Man United Could Line Up With New Signing From Chelsea
- Mason Mount's blockbuster switch to Manchester United is almost done
- Chelsea and United have reportedly agreed on a deal worth up to £60m
- Sports Brief looks at how United could line up with in their next season
Manchester United and Chelsea have reportedly agreed a fee for Mason Mount, and it looks like the English midfielder is on his way to Old Trafford.
His switch to Erik ten Hag's side means the Red Devils now have another midfielder that will bring competition for some of their established stars.
Although United had a decent 2022/23 season, they lacked depth and tenacity in the middle of the park.
Mount brings something different to the club, and the coach will need to find the best set-up in the new season.
Casemiro, Bruno Fernandes, and Christian Eriksen have been mainstays in the United line-up, but that combination has been disrupted by injuries and suspensions. Starting these three had some success during the season but they were also badly exposed many times.
Eriksen will likely be the casualty, and the former Tottenham Hotspur midfielder will have to make do with a place on the bench.
Sports Brief looks at where Mount will fit into the United team:
Where Mount fits for United
Mount at the pivot?
The Red Devils have struggled to find a reliable replacement for Michael Carrick over the years. Casemiro had a phenomenal first year in Manchester, but he isn't the best in progression in the first phase.
Eriksen started his United career playing at the pivot but was exposed early in the season, especially during the 4-0 loss to Brentford. However, the Dane came alive a few games later.
Therefore, Mount will need plenty of time to adjust if he plays in the pivot. He will likely be paired with Casemiro, who might make his job easier.
Ten Hag values players with great off-ball movement, and that is probably the Englishman's best quality. Eriksen was overrun many times, but Mount's energy will allow United to recover the ball much quicker.
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FootballMount as a No. 10?
Many consider the No. 10 spot the best position for the 24-year-old. However, that is the same position that Bruno Fernandes occupies. Therefore, it will be an interesting dynamic.
The Dutch manager shifted the Portuguese star to the wing to accommodate the likes of Wout Weghorst or Marcel Sabitzer. Chelsea's academy graduate is an upgrade on both, and he may find himself playing his preferred role.
Mount is also a goal threat and would provide the scores ten Hag needs from his midfielders. His tenacity could also make United employ an aggressive press in the final third.
Mount as a wide forward?
The young midfielder has incredible ball-striking ability and would thrive as a wide option. Ten Hag prefers traditional wingers, but he has shown he is not afraid to play someone like Fernandes wide.
Mount's incredible technique would allow him to create chances with his crossing or cutting in and shooting at goal.
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FootballMarcus Rashford, Jadon Sancho, and Alejandro Garnacho love playing on the left, meaning it is highly unlikely the manager will play him there unless someone is injured.
Finally, the midfielder's versatility could come in handy over the course of the season. Since United may not be done with transfer business, his position may be clearer when the window closes.
Fabrizio Romano reported that the deal would be worth up to £60 million, while David Ornstein reported that Mount will sign a 5-year deal at Old Trafford.
Fans react to Mount deal
Sports Brief earlier reported on Manchester United fans reacting to the Mount deal.
Some asked about his fee, saying they would've gotten a better player for that money.
Others were relieved that the Mount saga, which has taken a few weeks, is finally over.