Mount handed chance to earn new United role as Carrick eyes him for deeper midfield

Mason Mount enters Manchester United’s pre-season in Helsinki this weekend with a point to prove, three years after his £60 million move from Chelsea and still without a settled role at Old Trafford.

Manager Michael Carrick has spoken warmly of Mount, describing himself as “a big fan” and praising the midfielder’s “attitude and personality”, as well as his performance in a deeper midfield role during last season’s final-day win at Brighton. Those auditions in a deeper position could continue this summer — and if they do, it may signal that Carrick views that as Mount’s permanent home in the side.

United have knocked back tentative enquiries from AC Milan, insisting the 27-year-old is not for sale. Mount’s best form under Ruben Amorim came as a No.10 in a 3-4-2-1 system, which had fuelled speculation over a potential exit, but the club’s stance appears firm for now.

The challenge facing Mount is significant. In three seasons at Old Trafford he has made just 72 appearances and only 25 Premier League starts, missing 70 games through various injury problems. He was adamant towards the end of last season that those issues are behind him — a claim he will need to back up with sustained availability.

The competition around him is intensifying. Kobbie Mainoo returns from the World Cup with renewed motivation after being overlooked by England manager Thomas Tuchel throughout the tournament. Youri Tielemans has arrived from Aston Villa in a £35 million deal, and another midfielder is expected before the transfer window closes.

Andrey Santos, the £50 million signing from Chelsea, could line up alongside Mount in Helsinki this weekend. At 22 and holding a five-year contract, Santos has time to develop. Mount, with a couple of years remaining on his own deal, does not have the same luxury.

When the transfer was completed, then-director of football John Murtough described Mount as a “world-class player”. Delivering consistently on that billing — starting with pre-season — is now the clearest path to securing his future at the club.