BREAKING: Greenwood return finally approved by Sir Jim Ratcliffe Following Getafe lost to Sevilla last night,player will arrive today to join the rest of His teammates – Welcome star boy
Sir Jim Ratcliffe will be a central figure in Manchester United’s decision over Mason Greenwood’s future this summer. But the INEOS founder’s reported early summer transfer plans suggest he will unlikely move away from the official word from the club after his loan exit in September.
Greenwood left for Getafe on deadline day after internal and external backlash prompted since-departed chief executive Richard Arnold to make a U-turn on his decision to sanction a return.
Last February, the Crown Prosecution Service dropped charges of attempted rape, assault and controlling and coercive behaviour against Greenwood, all of which he denied.
But despite Arnold feeling “satisfied” that the 22-year-old forward was innocent of the allegations, United declared they would help him rebuild his career elsewhere.
At the time, the official word was that the club didn’t expect Greenwood to represent them again following the 21-month saga.
The impending change in sporting hierarchy after Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s £1.3billion deal for a 25 per cent stake and control of all football operations has brought his future back into the spotlight.
However, INEOS’ reported blockbuster summer plans suggest that they will opt to replace Greenwood and generate a transfer fee for his signature later this year.
United also retain a strong interest in Crystal Palace right-winger Michael Olise and could offer Aaron Wan-Bissaka to fend off rival interest from Chelsea and Liverpool.
If Erik ten Hag adds a new big-money striker and Olise to his ranks, there will be no space for Greenwood once he returns from his loan spell in La Liga.
Rasmus Hojlund arrived in a £72m deal last summer, and a new centre-forward would replace Anthony Martial, set to leave on a free transfer in July, as the 20-year-old Dane’s competition.
Greenwood has operated as a striker or right-winger throughout the early years of his career and would likely consider a permanent move away best for his development if Ratcliffe funds reinforcements in both areas.
He reportedly isn’t short of interest.
Atletico Madrid, Barcelona and Real Madrid are among the La Liga giants credited with an interest in the former United No 11’s services.
