Why Mason Greenwood could still play at Old Trafford next season amid Man United exit

Mason Greenwood’s exit from Manchester United has always been a case of when and not if, following last August’s statement.

United were roundly criticised for trying to reintegrate the attacker back into the senior squad last autumn after having sexual offence charges against him dropped in February 2023, allegations the player has always denied in full.

Instead, United announced that it would be 'most appropriate' for Greenwood to continue his career away from Old Trafford. The forward was loaned out to La Liga club Getafe for the season, and his 10-goal return means a permanent exit this summer is inevitable.

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The 22-year-old only has a year left on his United deal, and his sale can help raise much-needed headspace for his club within Premier League spending rules. An offer of £26.7m bid from Marseille has been accepted, subject to personal terms being agreed and medical checks.

The prospect of his arrival has infuriated some Marseille fans given the previous allegations, which prompted a protest statement being released on a fans forum. The city mayor has also called the potential transfer “unacceptable”.

New club boss Roberto De Zerbi has insisted innocence regarding Greenwood's “background”, but declared he would defend Greenwood “like my sons” in the public eye, as he would for all of his playing squad.

Marseille are not the only club to have formally tabled an offer, though, with Lazio also eager to acquire Greenwood. President Claudio Lotitio confirmed this week that he has submitted a fresh £21m bid for the