Thomas Tuchel may now be at the helm of Bayern Munich, but he is all too familiar with Mason Mount's quality from their shared time at Chelsea.
While the German toasts his first Bundesliga title as manager of the Bavarians, Mount is thought to be heading towards the Stamford Bridge exit. The 24-year-old has long been in negotiations with the Blues hierarchy over a new contract, but after the parties failed to agree on personal terms, it seems as if the England ace is destined for a move.
A number of clubs across the continent have registered an interest in landing Mount's signature, including Tuchel's Bayern, but it seems as if Chelsea's Premier League rivals Manchester United have won the race after reaching an agreement with the player and his representatives.
Both Arsenal and Liverpool had also been in the mix, but it would appear that the Red Devils produced the most attractive pitch to Mount.
All that is left now is for Erik ten Hag's United to agree a suitable transfer fee that would allow Chelsea to sanction Mount's departure. With just one year left on his contract, this summer presents the West Londoners' last real chance to cash in on the former Derby loanee.
Mount's steep drop in terms of form last season, though partly inspired by fitness struggles, has sparked debate over his quality and led to a debate over how much he is worth.
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Tuchel has worked closely with the midfielder and is under no illusion that Mount has the talent to return to the level of form the Stamford Bridge faithful grew accustomed to when he first burst onto the scene.
Speaking in late 2021 about how Chelsea's win percentage was significantly higher with Mount in the side than when he was absent, Tuchel laid bare the assets the midfielder brings to the team.
"It's not a statistic which guarantees you to start because this would be too easy.
"But it is something we are aware of and we will not deny that having Mason brings a certain attitude and an aura and a mentality on the field.
"It is very hard to drop him because even if he has a not so good game, you'll always get full energy and positivity and a wonderful approach."
The consensus among Chelsea fans regarding Mount's imminent exit is that it is a mistake from the club to allow a prized asset to leave without putting up too much of a fight, only adding to the current divide between supporters and the owners.
