Mason Mount reveals reason for Chelsea exit as Man United outline ‘strong desire’ which helped secure £60m transfer

Mason Mount has completed his move to Manchester United, with the former Chelsea star explaining his reasoning behind his Stamford Bridge exit.

The England international joined Chelsea’s academy at six years old, making his way into the first-team and becoming a key fixture in the club’s success in recent years. However, after months of speculation, Mount has swapped London for Manchester, ending his 18-year association with the Blues.

He signed for a fee of around £55 million, with £5 million worth of add-ons also included in the deal.

The 24-year-old confirmed his departure in an emotional social media message addressed to Chelsea fans, before United announced the Englishman had signed for the Reds on a five year deal, with the option of a further year.

In the post, Chelsea’s two-time player of the year reminisced over his achievements at the club, including his involvement in the Blues’ Champions League win in 2021.

And in an interview with Manchester United’s in-house media team, Mount has revealed the inspiration behind his decision.

Mount said: “It’s never easy leaving the club where you grew up, but Manchester United will provide an exciting new challenge for the next phase of my career. Having competed against them, I know just how strong a squad it is that I’m joining, and I can’t wait to be part of this group’s drive to win major trophies.”

The midfielder also spoke of his excitement of working under Erik Ten Hag, naming the United boss as a key factor in his move.

He added: “Everyone can see that the club has made big steps forward under Erik ten Hag. Having met with the manager and discussed his plans, I couldn’t be more excited for the seasons ahead, and am ready for the hard work expected here.”

“I am hugely ambitious; I know how amazing it feels to win major trophies and what it takes to do it. I will be giving everything to experience that again at Manchester United.”

Director John Murtough revealed Mount’s ‘strong desire’ to make the move aided the transfer.

“We were particularly impressed by his strong desire to join United, and his thirst for further success, as we push to drive up our performance levels next season and beyond.”

Following the confirmation of the move, Mount joins a seemingly ever growing list of out-goings from SW6, with Kai Havertz, Mateo Kovacic and N’Golo Kante amongst the names who have gone through the Cobham exit doors this summer.