Mason Greenwood running out of options with English teams 'scared' of signing Man Utd striker

Mason Greenwood Man Utd

Mason Greenwood's future at Man Utd remains up in the air

PA
Jack Otway

By Jack Otway


Published: 31/08/2023

- 11:58

The 21-year-old's future in football remains up in the air

Mason Greenwood is reportedly running out of options as the Manchester United striker looks to resume his career in football.

The England international had charges of attempted rape and assault dropped against him in February.


United then confirmed they would conduct an internal investigation into Greenwood, who last played for the club in a 1-0 win over West Ham in January 2022.

However, earlier this month, the club said the player would resume his career away from Old Trafford.

Man Utd Mason Greenwood

Man Utd striker Mason Greenwood had charges dropped against him in February this year

PA

According to The Sun, a handful of English clubs enquired about Greenwood after United confirmed they'd be dumping the striker.

But they have apparently been 'scared off' by the backlash over the possibility of the England international returning to the game.

Initial enquiries, it's said, have not been followed up.

Teams from Saudi Arabia aren't in for Greenwood either, with the player unlikely to head to the Middle East.

But a move to Turkey seems to be his only way out of United, with Besiktas among two teams hoping to secure the forward's signature.

The report says that if United can't find Greenwood a new club, they may have to pay his full wages for another two years.

The 21-year-old's current contract is due to expire in the summer of 2025.

United would, therefore, potentially have to pay Greenwood a further £8million in wages over the next couple of years.

Greenwood has been training with a private coach, having previously believed he'd be brought back into the fold at United.

Yet he's been left 'disappointed' by the club's decision to cut ties.

Earlier this month, United said Greenwood 'did not commit the offences in respect of wich he was originally charged'.

They said: "Our process commenced in February 2023, following all charges against Mason being dropped.

"Throughout, we have taken into account the wishes, rights and perspective of the alleged victim along with the club’s standards and values, and sought to collate as much information and context as possible.

"This has required us to proceed with sensitivity and care to obtain evidence not in the public domain, including from those with direct knowledge of the case.

"Based on the evidence available to us, we have concluded that the material posted online did not provide a full picture and that Mason did not commit the offences in respect of which he was originally charged.

"That said, as Mason publicly acknowledges today, he has made mistakes which he is taking responsibility for.

"All those involved, including Mason, recognise the difficulties with him recommencing his career at Manchester United.

"It has therefore been mutually agreed that it would be most appropriate for him to do so away from Old Trafford, and we will now work with Mason to achieve that outcome."

Greenwood himself said: "I want to start by saying I understand that people will judge me because of what they have seen and heard on social media, and I know people will think the worst.

"I was brought up to know that violence or abuse in any relationship is wrong, I did not do the things I was accused of, and in February I was cleared of all charges.

LATEST DEVELOPMENTS:

Mason Greenwood Man Utd

Mason Greenwood could end up in Turkey with future of Man Utd striker still uncertain

PA

"However, I fully accept I made mistakes in my relationship, and I take my share of responsibility for the situations which led to the social media post.

"I am learning to understand my responsibilities to set a good example as a professional footballer, and I’m focused on the big responsibility of being a father, as well as a good partner.

"Today’s decision has been part of a collaborative process between Manchester United, my family and me.

"The best decision for us all, is for me to continue my football career away from Old Trafford, where my presence will not be a distraction for the club.

"I thank the club for their support since I joined aged seven. There will always be a part of me which is United. I am enormously grateful to my family and all my loved ones for their support, and it is now for me to repay the trust those around me have shown. I intend to be a better footballer, but most importantly a good father, a better person, and to use my talents in a positive way on and off the pitch."

You may like