Newcastle have “made initial soundings” ahead of a potential offer for Chelsea attacking midfielder Mason Mount, according to the Daily Mail.

The England international has failed to agree terms over a contract extension and, with just a year left on his current deal, he could be allowed to leave Stamford Bridge this summer.

Reports in recent days have suggested that Manchester United are frontrunners for Mount’s signature, with the likes of Liverpool and Arsenal also interested in securing his services.

However, the Mail claims that Eddie Howe’s side could well make their own move for the 24-year-old, who may cost as much as £75m.

The Magpies are in the market for an attacking midfielder, as their interest in Leicester’s James Maddison and RB Leipzig’s Domink Szoboszlai demonstrates, so the fact that they are going after Mount is not a complete surprise.

Signing Mount Would Be A Massive Coup For Newcastle

With Champions League football and the financial muscle to give Mount the salary he wants, the Magpies are legitimate contenders for his signature.

Of course, there is a lot of competition but the club can put a credible case together that he should make the switch to the North East. It would be a major coup if he ends up at St James’ Park.