Michael Carrick has a differing opinion from Gary Neville regarding Mason Mount's future at Manchester United. While Neville suggested the club should consider 'trading him in' to generate transfer funds, Carrick sees Mount as a useful squad player with no intentions of letting him go.
Mount's Role Under Carrick
Mount has struggled to live up to expectations since his move from Chelsea, scoring just seven goals in 72 appearances. However, he showed glimpses of form under previous head coach Ruben Amorim and has looked bright in limited appearances towards the end of the season. Carrick, who began his permanent tenure with a 3-0 victory over Brighton, believes Mount's versatility across different positions will be valuable as United compete in four competitions next season.
Midfield Reinforcements Planned
With Casemiro already departed and Manuel Ugarte potentially following, United plan to sign at least two central midfielders to compete with Kobbie Mainoo and Mount. However, Mount remains in Carrick's plans despite being behind Mainoo in the pecking order. Sunday's appearance was only Mount's seventh under Carrick, totalling just 200 minutes, due to fitness issues and selection dilemmas.
Neville's Transfer Suggestions
Gary Neville, speaking on his Sky Sports podcast, identified Mount as a player United could sell to raise funds. He outlined four priority areas for recruitment: left-back, centre-back, and two midfielders. He added that if possible, trading Mount for a more flexible midfielder would be a fifth option. However, Carrick appears to have dismissed this idea.
United are set for a big summer spending spree, with targets including Elliot Anderson, Ederson, Adam Wharton, Carlos Baleba, and Sandro Tonali. Departures are expected for Ugarte, Andre Onana, Jadon Sancho, Marcus Rashford, and possibly fringe players like Joshua Zirkzee and Altay Bayindir. But Mount is not among those being considered for sale.
