Mason Greenwood has already hinted at transfer decision amid Manchester United talks

Mason Greenwood has no shortage of takers this summer with a Manchester United exit surely inevitable.

Sir Jim Ratcliffe had suggested in February that a decision on his departure had not been finalised despite the club stating in August that he would continue his career away from Old Trafford, following the fan backlash to their attempts to reintegrate him back into the squad.

Greenwood has not played for the club since January 2022 after being arrested on charges of attempted rape, assault occasioning actual bodily harm and controlling and coercive behaviour - allegations that were dropped in February 2023. The player has always denied all allegations.

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MEN Sport understands that efforts towards Greenwood’s permanent exit from United are advancing, with just a year left on his deal. Juventus, Valencia and Benfica are just three among a number of clubs who are interested in the 22-year-old.

Lazio are currently in talks while United are speaking to French club Marseille about a potential transfer, having caught the attention of both during his spell in Spain during the last campaign.

Greenwood spent the season on loan at Getafe, registering 10 goals and six assists across 36 matches. The Spanish outfit are keen on facilitating a return deal for the forward, who said he was made to feel “happy” at the club last term.

Getafe chief Angel Torres last week seemed to suggest that the player was edging towards a return. He said: “We hope to give good news soon and I hope he will stay another year.

“It looks like he will continue for another year. Every day that passes, there are more possibilities, but you have to be cautious.”

The attacker may be too pricey for them and several other suitors, while any suggestion of a loan deal would have to see United extend his contract in order to retain value, a decision that would be met with heavy criticism.

Besides, last month Greenwood appeared to indicate that a return to Getafe was not a guaranteed prospect, despite winning their player of the season award.

In fact, his goodbye message to club supporters inferred that he would be plying his trade elsewhere.

Taking to social media upon the end of the season in May, Greenwood wrote: “Incredibly grateful to the Getafe family and fans for an amazing season. Thank you for making me feel welcomed and one of your own.

“I enjoyed every second, alongside my teammates and club. A bittersweet ending, but it was a pleasure to play for you, I wish you all the best.”

Of course, there is a long way to go in the transfer window, but these comments do not portray a figure who was initially willing to consider a return. Realistically, Getafe cannot compete financially with the clubs interested.

Greenwood’s exit will help stabilise United’s fragile stance within Premier League spending rules, with the academy graduate’s fee counting for ‘pure’ profit given it cost the club nothing to bring him in.

United are thought to be operating on a net spend budget of just £50m this summer, so such sales would be needed in order for them to land all of the targets they want.

Greenwood could yet still play at Old Trafford again should he sign for a Europa League side that United may face in the competition.