How Erik ten Hag 'wowed' Mason Mount during private chat ahead of Man Utd move
The details of a 'private chat' between Mason Mount and Erik ten Hag have emerged ahead of his imminent £60 million move to Manchester United.
With a five-year deal worth a reported £250,000 per-week on the table, Mount completed his medical at the Carrington training facility on Monday.
The 24-year-old midfielder, who shared his ‘goodbye’ message to Chelsea fans on Tuesday night, has attracted interest from a number of clubs in the past 12 months, including Premier League rivals Liverpool.
Jurgen Klopp's side were, however, put off by Chelsea's high asking price, according to The Athletic.
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United's pursuit of Mount has been a drawn-out process. After having two bids rejected, United eventually stumped up an initial £55million plus further £5million in potential add-ons.
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Erik ten Hag, meanwhile, may have played a crucial role in the deal happening after details emerged surrounding a private conversation before a move was agreed.
An encouraged Mount was said to be 'wowed' by Ten Hag's in-depth knowledge and his appreciation for the game, according to reports.
In fact, during those talks, United's backroom and recruitment teams pulled together footage showing how Mount's playing style and Ten Hag's key principles match, say Sky Sports.
They also showcased how Mount could influence United's midfield in the coming months, as well as areas he can improve under the guidance of Ten Hag and his coaching methods.
Speaking on his YouTube channel on Friday, Fabrizio Romano revealed the hidden details of United's bid to sign the midfielder.
He said: "Credit to Manchester United because they always wanted Mount.
"Man United never left the race for Mason Mount, they always wanted him. What Erik ten Hag really appreciated is that Mount really wanted Man United and was showing this desire to join and work under Erik ten Hag.
"This is why the coach and the board all together they decided to wait for Mason Mount until the end."
Romano added: "Of course there were some tense moments when Chelsea rejected their £50 million bid. United were not happy at all, but Chelsea offered this possibility to meet face-to-face. These talks took place in the United States to help both parties reach an agreement.
"Chelsea wanted £65m, Man United offering £55, but then they decided to find common ground in £60m.
Explaining Mount's contract, Romano also claimed that the £5million add-ons would only be paid if Mount won a trophy at United.
"The structure is £55m plus £5m in add-ons," he continued. "But these add-ons will only be activated if Man United win trophies during the duration of Mount's contract."
Thoughts on United's capture of Mount? Let us know in the comments.
Topics: Mason Mount, Manchester United, Chelsea, Premier League, Transfers, Erik Ten Hag
Jack Kenmare