Manchester United have issued a statement in support of Mason Mount after footage showed him being pestered by fans for an autograph.
In the clip, new Red Devils star Mount is seen leaving his car before being approached by a group of men holding a shirt, in hope of having it signed by the £60million man.
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Immediately, the group in question bartered with Mount before the United star replies: “You know I ain’t signing it.”
The fans are then heard pleading with Mount before he politely says: “Sorry lads.”
The group were not taking Mount’s decision lying down and continued to follow and pester the England international, who appeared to be alone.
Mount can then be can he heard replying: “I ain’t signed it for the last three days so I don’t know why you lot keep coming back.”
Despite members of the group denying previous attempts to obtain the signature, Mount subsequently scrambled away from the crowd.
After viewing the footage, Manchester United have jumped to the defence of the player and warned action will be taken against what they describe as ‘professional autograph hunters’, if it continues to persist.
A club source said: “Unfortunately this kind of situation has become far too common. It’s the last thing Mason deserves after being so friendly with everyone he has come across since joining United.
“Professional autograph hunters are regularly pressuring United’s players to sign large quantities of items that they then sell for hundreds of pounds. It has become an every day occurrence and a major problem at Carrington.
“These organised groups will block players’ cars and harass them as they arrive and leave their workplace. It is becoming really dangerous and you have to worry that it is only a matter of time before someone gets hurt.
“It also means that young fans, who just want to interact with their heroes, often miss out because players can’t stop to take pictures with them without having to engage with the groups.
“It’s a real frustration for everyone, security staff are in regular dialogue with the players around how to stop the problem.
Action will definitely start to be taken if it continues to persist.”
The video clearly shows the level of interest drummed up by Mount’s move to Old Trafford.
His £60m switch from Chelsea signalled United’s first major signing of the summer.
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A breakdown in contract talks at Stamford Bridge left the midfielder in no other position but to leave Chelsea, with just 12-months left on his contract.
United boss Erik ten Hag was delighted with his new midfield reinforcement and told Mount of his high expectation for him.
The 24-year-old made his first start for the club on Wednesday evening in a 2-0 friendly win against Leeds in Oslo.
