Mason Mount is set to complete a move away from Chelsea after saying goodbye to his club and team-mates on Tuesday via social media.
See: Man Utd announce Mount signing
Mount's future has been subject to intense scrutiny this summer, and the 24-year-old said such talk had prompted him to address the Chelsea fans directly.
"Given the speculation over the last six months, this may not come as a surprise to you. But it doesn't make it any easier to tell you that I've made the decision to leave Chelsea," Mount revealed on Instagram.
"I feel you deserve more than just a written statement. I wanted to tell you directly how grateful I've been for your support over the last 18 years.
"I know some of you won't be happy with my decision but it's what's right for me at this moment of my career."
Mount paid tribute to the Blues' impact on his career, and the numerous achievements he has enjoyed with his boyhood club.
"I joined Chelsea when I was six years old, and we've been through a lot together. Winning the Youth Cup, my Player of the Year awards, the Super Cup, the Club World Cup and of course that unforgettable night when we won the Champions League.
"I want to say thank you to the academy for being so influential to me from such a young age. The managers I've worked under. Frank [Lampard], Thomas [Tuchel] and Graham [Potter]. The backroom staff, the unsung heroes of Cobham [training ground], all my team-mates over the years that have become my brothers, my family for the continuous love and support, and most important you guys for sticking with me throughout."
