Mason Greenwood transfer exit 'unlikely' as Man Utd leave door open for return

Manchester United forward Mason Greenwood’s summer transfer to Marseille is reportedly unlikely to go through for two major reasons, according to reports in France. The same factors could prevent a switch elsewhere, with United yet to rule out the possibility of Greenwood returning to the fold this season.

Earlier this week, The Athletic reported that Marseille were in early talks for the 22-year-old’s signature as Roberto De Zerbi looks to bolster his attack at the Stade Velodrome.

The Ligue 1 side are also said to have held discussions with Greenwood, and he has chosen them as his preferred destination if he leaves United this summer.

However, the report added that financials hadn’t yet been negotiated between United and Marseille, with the latter thought to be eyeing a £40million package.

According to L’Equipe, Greenwood joining Les Phoceens is unlikely, firstly because of the finances that are expected to be involved in any deal.

It’s claimed that Marseille’s summer funds are limited due to ongoing uncertainty surrounding TV rights in Ligue 1.

The club’s failure to qualify for European football – slumping to an eighth-place league finish last term – has also taken its toll on their capabilities in the transfer market.

But that’s not the only element representing a hurdle in a Greenwood deal, which has made it “very difficult”.

The report adds that the prospect of signing the former United No. 11 has been met with opposition from some Marseille supporters.

In January 2022, Greenwood was arrested and later charged with attempted rape, assault occasioning actual bodily harm, and controlling and coercive behaviour. He denied all of the charges.

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

Following a six-month review, United and Greenwood agreed that it would serve his career best if he resumed it away from Old Trafford last season.

He joined La Liga club Getafe on loan on deadline day, registering 10 goals and six assists in 36 appearances throughout the campaign.

Greenwood’s performances in Spain reportedly attracted heavyweight interest from multiple countries, including England, Germany and Italy.

Alongside Marseille, Lazio have emerged as one of the leading clubs in the race for the United academy graduate’s services. They are claimed to be in talks over a deal worth £30m plus bonuses.

But there hasn’t yet been any confirmation that his future permanently lies elsewhere, and he could report to Carrington for pre-season training if no deal has come to fruition by that stage.