Nicky Butt tells Michael Carrick to sell £55m Man Utd signing: ‘It’s sad but they have to’ | Football

Nicky Butt has urged Manchester United to sell Mason Mount in the summer transfer window.

Mount joined United in a £55 million deal from Chelsea in 2023 but has struggled with injuries during his time at Old Trafford.

This season, the 27-year-old has started just 10 Premier League games and has made just two appearances as a substitute under Michael Carrick.

Butt has praised Mount’s ability on the pitch but believes United need to cash in on the midfielder due to his injury record.

‘He’s a fantastic footballer, I’m a big fan of him when he’s fit,’ Butt told Paddy Power.

‘On his day, he’s a real top, top footballer and one that would suit Man United’s way of playing.

‘I love him when he’s playing well and he was brilliant when he played at Chelsea. But he’s just not fit.

‘He’s been there nearly three years, I find it hard having to pop at people who have been injured. But when you look at what’s the input – £55 million – and what’s the output, especially when it comes to renewing contracts. You can’t keep these lads.

‘You’ve just got to move them on. It’s sad but they have to.

‘United need players that they can rely on, especially at the moment.’

Butt also believes that United at least five new signings in the summer transfer window, including two central midfielders.

‘The biggest issue next season is they will be in Europe, no doubt about it,’ Butt said.

‘The big picture is the recruitment. They’ve got a massive job.

‘If you’re looking to try and get straight back into competing in the Champions League, to get into the late stages of the FA Cup and then challenge for the Premier League, they need a lot.

‘Two centre backs, two centre midfielders, a top centre forward and maybe even a right back.

‘It doesn’t matter if they give Michael the job, even if they got Pep Guardiola or Jurgen Klopp, they still need to get the recruitment right or they’re going to fail.’

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