Reece James pays tribute to 'ma brother' Mason Mount after 17 years together

Reece James said a heartfelt goodbye to his long-time Chelsea running mate Mason Mount, after the midfielder completed his transfer to Man United.

Mount was finally unveiled as United’s newest signing on Wednesday after completing a £60m move and penning a lucrative five-year contract at Old Trafford.

The 24-year-old ended an 18-year association with Chelsea, most of which was spent alongside James who took the opportunity to post a touching message to the departing Blue.

‘Ma brother man. Where do I start,’ James wrote in a Instagram post. ‘I’ve know you since 6 years old, we grew together and took similar paths in breaking into the first team.

‘Something that seemed virtually impossible. I’m proud to say I done it along side you. I’ve seen you as a little boy and watched you grow into the man and player you are today, you’ve done yourself and your family proud.’

Both James and Mount made their competitive debuts for Chelsea in 2019 following loan moves to Wigan Athletic and Derby County respectively.

The pair quickly established themselves as first-team regulars and proved vital in the club’s successful Champions League campaign in 2021.

It was only the second European Cup the club has won, which they followed up with UEFA Super Cup and Club World Cup honours the following year.

James, who signed a long-term deal with Chelsea in 2022, alluded to the success each has achieved since coming through the academy and was not shy in wishing his mate the best of luck as he moves to United.

Though, he reckons Mount, who made 195 appearances for Chelsea, will also be ‘blue at heart’, adding: ‘We’ve had some of the best days of our career together that’ll stick with me forever.

‘It’s sad to say goodbye. I wish you nothing but happiness, good health and the best of luck on your new adventure! You’ll always be blue at heart!’