Chelsea could inadvertently help Manchester United complete a deal for Mason Mount when they travel to Old Trafford tonight.
The Blues take on United at the Theatre of Dreams, with Frank Lampard's side on a disastrous run of form that has seen them earn just six points from their last ten matches.
United, by contrast, need just a point from their final two matches to qualify for the Champions League after a season outside of Europe's elite competition.
That would represent success in Erik ten Hag's first season at the club, and enable him to spend more in the summer transfer window.
The Dutchman plans on signing a top centre forward after United's struggles in front of goal but his priority beyond that is signing a central midfielder.
Mount, 24, is top of United's list. The England international is out of contract in 2024 and he's rejected the club's last two proposals to keep him.
United are set to submit a bid of around £55m for Mount but they won't do so until their spot in the top four is sealed.
Though Chelsea are seeking upwards of £70m for Mount, the Independent claim United are confident of completing a deal for the midfielder once they seal a top four spot.
Mount won't feature against United as he's sidelined for the remainder of the season.
It means the playmaker may have played his final game for the club.
However, Mauricio Pochettino is reportedly keen on keeping him and will make it a priority once he is appointed at Stamford Bridge.
Comments