Bruno Fernandes has welcomed Mason Mount to Manchester United after his move from Chelsea was confirmed on Wednesday.
The England international, 24, has signed a five-year deal with Erik ten Hag's side, with the option of a further year. United have paid £55million up front, with a possible £5m coming in add-ons. Mount insists he "will be giving everything" to the cause.
Fernandes was one of the first United players to welcome Mount to Old Trafford. The club's vice-captain did so in a humorous way by sharing a picture of him pulling Mount's shirt. He wrote: "Why did you take so long to sign? Welcome, Mason Mount."
It's not the first time Fernandes has offered his opinion on Mount. The Portuguese playmaker named his new team-mate as one of the best nine players in the Premier League two years ago, praising his consistency and "top" performances.
Fernandes made the claim during an interview with United's website. Mount's efforts in 2021 helped Chelsea win the Champions League final - assisting Kai Havertz's winner against Manchester City - and the European Super Cup, as well as reach the FA Cup final.
Fernandes said: "I really like Mason Mount - he’s been consistent from the beginning of the season but, if people will watch numbers he’s not had so many goals as other players or assists as other players but, for me, as a performance he’s been really, really top."
Do you think Mason Mount is a good signing for Manchester United? Let us know in the comments below!
United have been chasing Mount's signature for several weeks, with Chelsea rejecting three bids. The two clubs eventually agreed a fee to avoid negotiations continuing into pre-season. United and Chelsea both have important tours on the horizon.
"It’s never easy leaving the club where you grew up, but Man Utd will provide an exciting new challenge for the next phase of my career," Mount told United's website. "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.
"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 Man Utd."
United's football director John Murtough added: "Mason is an extremely intelligent footballer and has so many fantastic technical qualities that will significantly add to our squad. We have admired his talents for a long time, so we are delighted that he has chosen to take the next steps in his career here at Old Trafford."
Murtough continued: "Mason himself is a world-class player but he also has the ability to improve the players around him through his game intelligence and tactical awareness."
