Man Utd 'hit with Mason Greenwood U-turn' as chance of surprise transfer twist grows

Juventus, thought to be among the frontrunners to land Manchester United forward Mason Greenwood, have reportedly bowed out of the race for his signature. The sudden U-turn is claimed to have been sparked by Juve’s ownership, handing his other suitors, including Getafe, an advantage over a summer switch.

Greenwood resumed his career on loan at Getafe last season, registering 10 goals and six assists in 36 appearances for the La Liga side.

He is widely expected to leave United on a permanent transfer in the coming months after his performances in Spain attracted heavyweight interest.

Atletico Madrid, Barcelona, Benfica, Borussia Dortmund, Juventus, Lazio and Napoli have all been credited with an interest in the 22-year-old.

However, Juventus now appear out of the running at the order of the club’s owners, despite football director Cristiano Giuntoli pushing for a deal.

According to La Repubblica, per IlBianconero, Giuntoli, previously of Napoli, is a huge admirer of Greenwood and was the driving force of the Old Lady’s interest.

However, the Agnelli family, Juventus’ owners, have blocked any move due to the circumstances that led to the former United No. 11’s 18-month break from football.

Greenwood was arrested in January 2022 and later charged with attempted rape, assault occasioning actual bodily harm, and controlling and coercive behaviour, all of which he denied.

In February 2023, the UK’s Crown Prosecution Service dropped all charges due to the withdrawal of key witnesses and new evidence that had come to light.

A six-month internal investigation followed, which led to United agreeing with Greenwood that his career was best-placed away from Old Trafford.

Lazio appear to be the frontrunners to sign the Bradford-born striker, having opened talks over a £30m deal earlier this month.

However, in an unexpected development, Getafe president Angel Torres recently claimed that they were confident that Greenwood would spend a second season in Madrid.

“We have 15 in the squad plus Greenwood, who we hope to give good news about soon and I hope will stay another year,” Torres revealed at a Getafe kit launch.

“As the press says, there are many offers, and we will abide by what Manchester United say.

“It looks like he will continue for another year. Every day that passes there are more possibilities but you have to be cautious.”

Juventus exiting the frame would increase that possibility, but United would prefer a permanent exit as close to their £40m valuation as possible.