MASON MOUNT has revealed he knew “several months ago” that he “wasn’t in Chelsea’s plans” following his move to Manchester United.
The England international, 24, was confirmed as Erik ten Hag’s first signing of the summer on Wednesday.
Mason Mount left boyhood club Chelsea after 18 years
He has signed for Manchester United in a deal worth £60million
His Stamford Bridge departure comes after 18 years at the club – with Mount joining the Blues at the age of just six.
But as he prepared to enter the final 12 months of his contract, Chelsea failed to agree terms and then opted to cash in on him this summer amid fears he could have left on a free transfer in 2024.
And Mount has now admitted he was aware he had become surplus to requirements in West London.
Speaking to MUTV, he said: “Several months ago, it became clear that I wasn’t in Chelsea’s plans moving forward.
“Once I knew that United were involved, my decision was made up.
“A massive club, huge iconic players have played here, and I wanted to be a part of that from the beginning. Getting in early and ready for pre-season to start was a main objective of mine as well.”
Mount leaves Chelsea having registered 33 goals and 37 assists in 195 appearances.
But he is now focused on a new chapter at Man Utd – where he will be the No7.
And he has revealed his admiration for club legends Cristiano Ronaldo and David Beckham – both of whom made the seven an iconic shirt number.
He added: “So many iconic players have played for this club and watching them as a youngster and also being a fan of them, it is very special to be here.
“This is what I’ve worked a long, long time for and it is so exciting.
“I had a lot of idols. Ronaldo, you see the little video of me when I was younger. I loved watching him play.
“Becks [David Beckham] was also a massive inspiration of mine, I was in awe of his free-kick technique.
“You take bits of inspiration from different players.”
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