Two Premier League clubs have enquired about Manchester United forward Mason Greenwood, according to a new report, but a permanent move abroad is ‘more likely’ at this stage.
Greenwood has spent this season on loan at Getafe after United eventually recognised “the difficulties with him recommencing his career” at the club, deciding “it would be most appropriate for him to do so away from Old Trafford”.
That only kicked the can a little way down the road and, with Greenwood’s loan set to soon end, United are faced with the issue of attempting to offload him all over again.
A permanent switch to Getafe, where the 22-year-old has scored ten goals in 31 appearances, isn’t likely given the club’s financial limitations.
It remains United’s preference to sell, although triggering the 12-month extension option in his contract in order to prevent Greenwood becoming a free agent in 2025 and then arranging a second loan hasn’t been ruled out if a suitable offer fails to materialise.
The Telegraph writes that United value Greenwood at a similar fee to the one that took Cole Palmer to Chelsea last summer – between £40m and £45m – and that two unnamed Premier League clubs have made enquiries about him.
Any side prepared to gamble on Greenwood is likely to face a backlash, as Getafe did, but particularly should an English club be the one to do it.
It is, however, suggested that the forward is ‘still more likely’ to play overseas.
There is said to be close attention from Atletico Madrid despite playing down interest, with Barcelona keen but lacking funds and Real Madrid considered unlikely to pursue him.
Unnamed clubs in Germany are also linked, while there is interest from Italian sides – which could include Juventus and Lazio following recent speculation.
After an internal investigation when criminal charges were dropped amid the withdrawal of key witnesses and new evidence coming to light, United had initially been expected to try and reintegrate Greenwood into their squad until a monumental backlash erupted.
Sir Jim Ratcliffe later left the door ajar to the player still having a future at the club once he arrived as minority co-owner by suggesting that a fresh judgement would be made.
However, the billionaire caveated his comments by stating that fans being “comfortable with it” would have to be a factor.
What we know
- Mason Greenwood facing career crossroad as Getafe loan nears end
- Man Utd tipped to demand up to £45m for 22-year-old forward
- Several clubs across England & Europe are reported to be interested.