Deadline to charge or release Mason Greenwood looming after rape arrest

The clock is running on the window detectives have to quiz Mason Greenwood over rape and assault allegations.

The 20-year-old footballer was arrested on Sunday after a woman made serious claims about him on social media.

Manchester United have suspended their star talent and confirmed he won’t play again while investigations are ongoing.

The £75,000-a-week forward was being held in custody as of Sunday evening.

Police cars were seen outside the England international’s home in Bowdon, a leafy suburb of Manchester, yesterday.

Private security guards were seen at a second address thought to be associated with Greenwood, according to The Sun. It is believed his parents live at the home.

Under the law, the police have 24 hours to interrogate a suspect before they must charge or release the individual. 

Officers can extend that period by 12 hours in certain circumstances but must receive a judge’s permission to go beyond that in the most serious cases.

Greater Manchester Police have not provided any further update this morning. 

Yesterday, the force said it had been ‘made aware of online social media images and videos posted by a woman reporting incidents of physical violence’.

A spokesperson said: ‘An investigation was launched and following inquiries we can confirm a man in his 20s has since been arrested on suspicion of rape and assault.

‘He remains in custody for questioning.Inquiries are ongoing.’

Manchester United said Greenwood will not train or play for the Premier League club until further notice.

Allegations and images from Greenwood’s accuser were shared widely on Instagram on Sunday but have since been deleted.

In an earlier statement, Manchester United had said the club was aware of images and allegations circulating on social