Manchester United may experience a transfer advantage this summer as uncertainty surrounds Mason Greenwood’s future at Marseille.
Following allegations of domestic violence, Greenwood was suspended by United and subsequently loaned to Getafe for the 2023/2024 season. His performance in La Liga has attracted interest from several prominent European clubs.
Marseille secured his services for €26 million, and the transfer has proven beneficial, with Greenwood scoring 16 goals and providing three assists in 28 matches across all competitions, contributing to Roberto De Zerbi’s team sitting second in Ligue 1, 19 points behind the dominant Paris Saint-Germain.
However, De Zerbi expressed his frustrations with the 23-year-old last month, specifically criticizing his corner-taking abilities as one of the most “irritating” elements of Greenwood’s play.
“Greenwood is not a corner specialist,” he remarked. “He has the potential to become one, but his focus is primarily on scoring. When he approaches a corner, he seems somewhat distracted, which frustrates me.”
The former Brighton manager has reiterated his concerns regarding Greenwood, particularly about his perceived lack of “sacrifice.”
De Zerbi stated, “I hold him in high regard, but that does not alter my expectations. He needs to elevate his performance, as what he is currently delivering is insufficient.
“To fulfill his ambition of becoming a champion, he must demonstrate greater consistency, make more sacrifices, and exhibit increased determination.”
According to French media outlet RMC Sport, Greenwood’s declining status may be attributed to his ‘poor attitude,’ and if he fails to heed De Zerbi’s remarks, there is a significant possibility he could be sold at the conclusion of the season.
It has been reported that Paris Saint-Germain has submitted a formal offer of €75 million (£62 million) for Greenwood in anticipation of the summer transfer window, with both Barcelona and Liverpool also prepared to match this proposal to acquire his services.
According to RMC reporter Florent Germain, there is a perceived sense of ‘lack of effort’ and ‘indifference’ surrounding Greenwood. He noted that a resolution with De Zerbi may be necessary for Greenwood to remain with the club.
Germain stated, “He is a player capable of making a significant impact, but if he fails to respond, there will be concerns regarding Greenwood’s potential departure this summer.”
De Zerbi’s dissatisfaction and Greenwood’s possible exit could benefit Manchester United, who included a 50 percent sell-on clause in the contract of their academy graduate.
The approximately £30 million they could receive would provide a substantial advantage for head coach Ruben Amorim as he aims to implement extensive changes to his struggling squad this summer, potentially funding the acquisition of a Manchester City academy graduate in which they have recently developed an interest.
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