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Despite several managers attempting to incorporate Mason Mount into Manchester United’s tactical framework, none have yet managed to define the English midfielder’s most effective position within the team.

It came as a surprise when the Red Devils spent £55 million to bring him in from Chelsea in 2023, given that his most natural role lies just behind the striker.

At Old Trafford, however, that position has long been occupied by Bruno Fernandes, making it nearly impossible for the England international to displace the Portuguese playmaker.

Nevertheless, then-manager Erik ten Hag approved the transfer and initially deployed Mount alongside Casemiro in central midfield. That experiment, however, proved unsuccessful, as United often found themselves overrun in the middle of the park, with Mount’s injury troubles further compounding the problem.

Ruben Amorim appeared to be the coach who came closest to drawing the best out of the former Chelsea star, opting to play him in his preferred advanced role even at the cost of repositioning the club captain.

But Fernandes’ move into a deeper role disrupted the team’s attacking rhythm, and shortly thereafter, Amorim was dismissed, paving the way for Michael Carrick to take charge.

Since his appointment, Carrick has primarily used the No. 7 either as a substitute or in a deep-lying playmaking position. While the 27-year-old has made commendable efforts, his skill set does not naturally align with a double-pivot system.

This has fuelled speculation that the 20-time English champions might be open to selling Mount, with Amorim reportedly interested in reuniting with him at AC Milan.

However, as reported by The Manchester Evening News, Manchester United’s hierarchy, led by INEOS, have no intention of letting Mount go — a stance influenced by Manuel Ugarte’s recent injury and the club’s congested fixture list in the upcoming season.

According to the report, “There has been no contact between AC Milan and Mason Mount’s representatives, despite claims from Italy suggesting that the Manchester United midfielder had been offered to the Serie A club.

“Former United head coach Ruben Amorim was recently appointed as Milan’s manager. Amorim greatly admired Mount during his time at Old Trafford, but the 27-year-old is expected to remain in Manchester.

“Sources close to Mount were surprised to see reports that he had been offered to Milan this past weekend. The player has been training in Spain with a personal coach ahead of United’s pre-season return to Carrington. His focus is firmly on starting the new campaign strongly.

“United’s 2026/2027 schedule will be back to normal, with the club competing in four tournaments — the Premier League, Champions League, FA Cup, and Carabao Cup — and Mount is regarded as an important senior member of the squad.”

Some believe this firm stance could be a strategic move to boost Mount’s market value. Even so, it is unlikely that he will be a first-choice starter once the full squad is fit.

While Carrick remains supportive of Mount, both the player’s persistent injury issues and high wages suggest that a move could serve the best interests of all parties involved. That said, if INEOS’ transfer plans are hindered by Ugarte’s absence, Mount — the current holder of the No. 7 shirt — may finally have the opportunity to prove his worth after three underwhelming seasons.

Feature image: Gareth Copley/Getty Images