Manchester United are planning to deploy Mason Mount in a completely different position next season as the club scrambles to address a growing midfield crisis at Old Trafford.
Carrick turns to £250,000-a-week star as midfield crisis deepens at Old Trafford
The 27-year-old England international, who arrived from Chelsea for £55 million in 2023, has struggled with persistent injuries during his time in the North West.
However, manager Michael Carrick now sees the former Chelsea star as a potential solution to his midfield problems.
United’s midfield options have been severely depleted following Casemiro’s departure last month and Manuel Ugarte’s long-term injury.
The Uruguayan midfielder ruptured his anterior cruciate ligament while on World Cup duty and faces months on the sidelines.
With only Kobbie Mainoo available as a recognised central midfielder, Carrick has been forced to think creatively.
According to The Sun, Mount will drop into a deeper role behind Bruno Fernandes, a position he occupied successfully during the closing stages of last season.
The decision comes after United’s proposed £39 million move for Atalanta midfielder Ederson fell through.
The Brazilian international appeared certain to become Carrick’s first signing, but medical assessment issues reportedly scuppered the deal.
The club has now turned its attention to alternative targets, including Lille’s Ayyoub Bouaddi, who impressed at the World Cup, Roma’s Manu Kone, and Bournemouth’s Alex Scott.
The £250,000-per-week midfielder has yet to replicate the form that helped Chelsea win the Champions League in 2021.
Mount made just 25 appearances across all competitions last season, mostly from the bench.
With Mainoo not rejoining the squad until August 9th, Mount is expected to start United’s pre-season fixtures against Wrexham, Rosenborg, and Atletico Madrid. This campaign could prove decisive for his Old Trafford career.
United have already agreed a £50 million deal with Chelsea for Brazilian midfielder Andrey Santos, with two more midfield arrivals expected before the transfer window closes.
