Mason Mount has claimed that his imminent £60m move from Chelsea to Manchester United “is right for me at this moment in my career”.
The England midfielder has completed a medical ahead of his transfer to the Blues’ Premier League rivals.
The deal is a £55million initial payment plus £5million in performance-related add-ons.
Contracts are now being finalised between the two clubs and a formal announcement is expected in the next 24 hours.
In a farewell video posted on social media to Chelsea supporters on Tuesday evening, Mount said: “Hi Chelsea fans. Given the speculation over the last couple of months, this may not come as a surprise to you that I’ve made the decision to leave Chelsea. I feel you deserve more than just a written statement.
“So I wanted to tell you directly how grateful I’ve been for all of your support over the last 18 years. 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.”