Chelsea have confirmed the exit of Mason Mount this summer, with the midfield making the move to Manchester United in a deal worth up to £60million. The move brings an end to an 18-year association with the club for the 24-year-old following plenty of links with an exit.
The England international was able to shine in his first few years after breaking into the first team, winning the club's Player of the Year trophy twice. The previous campaign was far from easy though as a mix of injury and poor results lead to Mount being in and out of the team.
Behind the scenes, there were issues surrounding his contract as the England international neared the final 12 months of his deal at Stamford Bridge. While an agreement appeared close late last year, no agreement was found and eventually it appeared as though an exit was preferred over a stay.
There was plenty of interest, but it was United that would push the hardest, having several bids turned down before they reached a compromise on a deal worth up to £60million. Taking to social media before the move, Mount confirmed his decision in a statement to fans.
"Given the speculation over the last six months this may not come as a surprise to you, but it doesn't make it any easier to tell you I have made the decision to leave Chelsea," the academy graduate said. "I thought you deserved more than just a written statement, so I wanted to tell you directly how grateful I have been for all of your support over the last 18 years.
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"I know some of you won't be happy with my decision but it's what is right for me at this moment in my career. I joined Chelsea when I was six-years-old and we have been through a lot together, winning the Youth Cup, my Player of the Year awards, the Super Cup, the Club World Cup and of course the unforgettable night when we won the Champions League... wish you all the best."
The Red Devils then went on to post the announcement of a huge signing for the summer, with Chelsea putting out their own statement that included Mount's story until this point. Chairman Todd Boehly and co-controlling owners Behdad Eghbali and Jose E. Feliciano gave their own statement too.
"Mason is a consummate professional and a popular figure at the club. We want to thank him for all his efforts on and off the pitch throughout his time at Chelsea."
It remains to be seen whether the Blues will regret letting such a player leave in the circumstances it has happened, however the search for a new squad balance is underway.
