Manchester United are already in discussions with Atalanta BC over loaning Mason Greenwood to the Italian club for the 2023-24 campaign.
The 21-year-old is now free to resume his football career, having seen all recent criminal charges against him dropped, and the Red Devils are believed to be close to concluding their internal investigation into the events that led to him being arrested in the early stages of last year.
At this stage, it is thought to be unlikely that Greenwood will be released or sold, with Man United instead believed to be exploring loan possibilities for next season.
Roma, Juventus and AC Milan have all been linked with the England international, but according to the Manchester Evening News, Atalanta have emerged as the favourites to sign him.
The report claims that Man United football director John Murtough has held 'extensive talks' with Atalanta chiefs to discuss a loan switch for Greenwood for next season.
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Greenwood still has another two years left to run on his contract, with the option of a further 12 months, and Red Devils head coach Erik ten Hag is said to be against selling him.
The forward has allegedly placed his house up for let, indicating that he will be spending next season away from English football in a bid to rebuild his career.
Before his arrest, Greenwood was regarded as one of the best young talents in world football, featuring on 129 occasions for Man United, scoring 35 goals and contributing 12 assists in the process.
An announcement on the forward's future is expected to arrive well in advance of the team's first Premier League match of the 2023-24 campaign against Wolverhampton Wanderers on August 14.
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Following accusations from a woman, Greenwood was arrested in the early stages of last year on suspicion of rape and assault, and he was then further arrested on suspicion of sexual assault and threats to kill.
The footballer was also facing charges of attempted rape, engaging in controlling and coercive behaviour, and assault occasioning actual bodily harm, but all criminal charges against him have since been dropped.
Man United are also speaking to Atalanta about a deal for Rasmus Hojlund, with the Denmark international seemingly being identified as the club's leading forward target this summer.
Hojlund scored 10 goals and registered four assists in 34 appearances for Atalanta last season following his arrival from Sturm Graz.
Man United have already signed Mason Mount from Chelsea this summer, while they are advancing on a deal for Inter Milan goalkeeper Andre Onana.
Matt Law
