Manchester United forward Mason Greenwood could be on his way out of Old Trafford this summer, with Marseille reportedly close to securing his signature.
The 22-year-old spent last season on loan at Getafe and now looks set to make a permanent move to Marseille.
The deal is said to be worth a total of £27 million, with £23 million to be paid upfront and a further £4 million in potential add-ons.
Also, a significant sell-on clause has been included in the agreement, according to reports from the Athletic.
However, despite the negotiations between the two clubs, the deal still hinges on Greenwood’s approval as per Athletic.
Manchester United have also secured a ‘large’ sell-on fee as part of the contract, ensuring they will benefit financially from any future sale of the young winger.
Lazio and Marseille in pole position for Mason Greenwood
Initially, both Marseille and Lazio had shown interest in Greenwood, with bids being submitted by the two powerhouses.
However, Lazio’s interest seems to have waned, with their president suggesting they are pursuing other targets instead.
Marseille, on the other hand, appears keen to secure Greenwood’s services and are moving closer to finalizing the deal.
Meanwhile, the 22-year-old striker was spotted at Carrington for a brief meeting with Manchester United’s chiefs regarding his potential move on Monday, July 9.
Mason Greenwood spent last season on loan at Getafe after being arrested at the end of January 2022 on serious charges including attempted rape, controlling and coercive behavior, and assault occasioning actual bodily harm.
As a result, he was suspended by Manchester United. However, the charges were later dropped in February 2023.
The young forward arrived in La Liga on last summer’s deadline day and his performances made him a fan favorite in Getafe.
In all competitions, Greenwood made 36 appearances and scored ten goals while also providing six assists for the Spanish side.
Roberto de Zerbi promises to protect Mason Greenwood
Marseille manager Roberto de Zerbi has expressed his commitment to supporting Greenwood should he make the move to the French club.
He said: “For sure Mason’s a world-class player.
“I don’t know his background.
“No matter the player… once they sign here, they become like my children. I protect them, always.”
Marseille mayor opposes club signing Greenwood
Marseille’s mayor, Benoit Payan, has strongly advised the city’s football club against signing Mason Greenwood after their bid for the Manchester United forward was accepted.
Payan expressed his concerns on French radio, stating that he will personally request Marseille’s president, Pablo Longoria, to reconsider the decision.
Payan remarked: “I cannot allow my club to be tainted by such actions.This situation is simply unacceptable.”
The mayor’s unexpected intervention could be attributed to Greenwood’s past legal troubles, which included charges of attempted rape and assault that were eventually dropped in February 2023.
Although the outcome of this potential transfer is uncertain, we believe that a player’s off-field issues should not overshadow his talent and contributions on the pitch.
Manchester United set to sign Bologna’s star Joshua Zirkzee
Elsewhere, Manchester United have reportedly reached an agreement with Bologna forward Joshua Zirkzee as they look to bolster their attacking options this summer.
According to journalist Fabrizio Romano, the terms have been settled between the player and the club, but now the Red Devils must decide on whether to pay his £34million release clause.
Negotiations are also underway to potentially adjust the structure of the deal, with Bologna needing to pay 50 percent of the transfer fee to Bayern Munich.
The reason for this is the presence of a sell-on clause that was included in his contract when he departed the Bundesliga giants in 2022.
Zirkzee has garnered significant attention in recent months due to his strong performance in Italy.
He ultimately finished the season as Bologna’s top scorer, netting 11 goals and providing five assists, helping his club secure a berth in the Champions League group stage.
Zirkzee is currently in Germany after receiving a last-minute call-up to the Netherlands squad for Euro 2024.
He was brought in after Frenkie de Jong sustained an injury that forced him to withdraw from the tournament.
The 22-year-old Zirkzee will now be part of the Oranje squad as they take on England in the semi-finals on Wednesday night, July 10.
