Man United's Mason Greenwood 'moves one step closer' to joining Marseille

Marseille are reportedly edging closer to completing the signing of Manchester United forward Mason Greenwood.

The 22-year-old returned to the Red Devils' training ground on Monday to allegedly hold talks with the club's hierarchy over how to facilitate an exit from Old Trafford.

Greenwood spent last season on loan at La Liga club Getafe, joining the club last summer after charges of attempted rape, controlling and coercive behaviour and assault occasioning actual bodily harm were all dropped in February 2023.

The Englishman, who has not played for Manchester United since he was arrested in January 2022, impressed during his time in Spain, recording 10 goals and six assists in 33 league appearances, and Getafe's president has been keen to re-sign the forward this summer.

However, a host of other European clubs have since come forward to express their interest in Greenwood, including both Marseille and Lazio.

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Marseille, Lazio battling for Greenwood signature

It was reported last week that Marseille have agreed a deal worth £26.7m, plus add-ons, to sign Greenwood from Man United, who have also inserted a 'significant' sell-on clause into the deal believed to be between 40% and 50%.

Such reports were met with immense frustration from Marseille's mayor, who has urged the city's football club not to sign Greenwood as he does not want his club to be "covered in shame".

On Monday, it was confirmed by Lazio president Claudio Lotito that the Italian club have submitted an offer of "€25m plus add-ons and 50% sell-on clause" to Man United for Greenwood, and are waiting for a response.

Fellow Serie A sides Juventus and Napoli have also been credited with an interest, as have Borussia Dortmund and Benfica, but it appears that Marseille are at the front of the queue to win the race for Greenwood's signature.

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Greenwood agrees to join Marseille

According to The Athletic, Marseille have reached an agreement in principle with Greenwood to sign the forward from Man United.

The report adds that Marseille have been waiting for Greenwood's approval after having a transfer offer accepted by the Red Devils last week, and that has now arrived in 'verbal form', with work between all parties to continue in an effort to get the deal over the line.

It is claimed that Greenwood's decision to accept Marseille is a 'significant development' in the process of resolving his future, which Man United have decided should be away from Old Trafford.

Greenwood will be required to travel to France to undergo a medical and sign a long-term contract, believed to be until June 2029, before the proposed transfer can be completed.

Marseille are now managed by former Brighton & Hove Albion boss Roberto De Zerbi, who stated last week that he would 'publicly defend' Greenwood and hold no prejudice against the player because of his past should he join the club.