TalkSPORT pundit Tony Cascarino believes Chelsea midfielder Mason Mount would be a “great replacement” for Granit Xhaka.

The Arsenal star is set to leave the Emirates for Bayer Leverkusen this summer and Cascarino says Mount possesses the attributes to fill the role vacated by the Swiss international:

“I personally think he would be a great replacement for Granit Xhaka at Arsenal, because I love Mount as an attacking midfielder. His goal record tells you that he loves to play from slightly deeper positions, but he always strives to get into the 18-yard box. He’s tenacious with high energy, although he’s not the quickest.”

As Cascarino says, Mount does seem to be the perfect fit for the hybrid no.8/10 role that Xhaka has been deployed in this season. He is a creative player, with a great work rate, and his goal return isn’t too bad either.

There are many rivals for Mount’s signature

Reports earlier this week suggested that Manchester United are planning to table a £55m bid for the England international in the near future, while Liverpool are also thought to be keen on signing the player.

However, it is believed that Chelsea may hold out for as much as £85m, despite the fact that he is closing in on the final year of his contract at Stamford Bridge.

That could put off Arsenal from making an offer, especially if the club’s number one target is West Ham captain Declan Rice, who is expected to cost even more than Mount.