Erik ten Hag, Manchester United's current manager, will now have the opportunity to coach Mason Mount, an attacking midfielder he once admired from afar during his tenure as the Ajax head coach.
In a stunning turn of events, Mount has signed a contract with Manchester United, marking the end of his long-standing journey with Chelsea, a club he joined at the tender age of six. The England international has decided to part ways with his boyhood club to explore new challenges at United, with an official announcement expected soon.
️ Mason Mount has signed his #MUFC contract, valid until 2028. @FabrizioRomano pic.twitter.com/aLXjLZwkvX — UtdPlug (@UtdPlug) July 4, 2023
This monumental move, costing United £55m with the potential to add a further £5m based on performances, comes after Mount's successful medical at the new club's training ground. He was also spotted mingling with his new teammates, sparking excitement among the squad.
Mason Mount’s medical was fine and successfully completed — waiting for Manchester United announcement. #MUFC Mount’s expected to share his ‘goodbye’ message to Chelsea — then Manchester United will unveil Mount as their first summer signing. pic.twitter.com/UvpcJWPBNw — Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) July 4, 2023
Mount's departure from Stamford Bridge is one of many this transfer window. The club has witnessed exits of key players like Kai Havertz, Mateo Kovacic, and Kalidou Koulibaly. This comes as quite a contrast to Mount's debut match for Chelsea against United in August 2019, a day he'd rather forget as his team suffered a 4-0 defeat at Old Trafford.
Despite this, Mount's stint at Chelsea was studded with victories, including notable triumphs in the Champions League, Super Cup, and Club World Cup. With a record of 27 Premier League goals in 129 games, Mount is set to bring a wealth of experience and skill to United. His first game in the new colors might be a pre-season friendly against Leeds in Oslo.
Interestingly, ten Hag first noticed Mount back in March 2018 during an Ajax-Vitesse Arnhem match where Mount, then 18, contributed to his side's victory with an impressive free-kick. Reportedly, ten Hag even attempted to bring Mount to Ajax on loan from Chelsea after the young player's stellar performance in his debut senior football campaign, with 14 goals and 10 assists.
Meanwhile, Manchester United also continues to pursue other potential signings. The club is in talks with Atalanta for striker Rasmus Hojlund, and despite a difference in valuations, the player appears keen on the move. United has also expressed interest in Eintracht Frankfurt's Kolo Muani, alongside their search for a new goalkeeper.
While Inter Milan's Andre Onana is on their radar, cost may become a deciding factor. Amid these developments, United is also in discussions with 32-year-old David De Gea for a new contract, as his current one nears expiration.
