- EXCLUSIVE from Graeme Bailey
HITC understands Atletico Madrid and Barcelona are continuing to keep close tabs on Mason Greenwood, but Getafe are pushing hard to renew his loan deal for another 12 months.
Manchester United have decided to take up Greenwood’s one-year option, which means he is tied to Old Trafford until 2026 and gives the club options, HITC can also reveal.
New minority owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe opened up the prospect of him returning to the club, and whilst possible, sources have confirmed to HITC that scenario remains ‘unlikely’ given the previous circumstances around his exit.
However, Ratcliffe’s declaration earlier in the year means that clubs interested realise that they can’t land him for a bargain fee.
Manchester United are happy with Mason Greenwood’s campaign in Getafe, which has again seen him confirm himself as one of the best young forwards in Europe.
The 22-year-old joined the tenth-placed La Liga club on the eve of the Spanish season last summer and impressed hugely, with 10 goals and six assists in all competitions, and that has prompted the Madrid minnows to try and keep him.
Interest across Europe for Mason Greenwood
Italian giants Juventus have expressed interest in Greenwood, but HITC is told that the player is happy and settled in the Spanish capital
HITC also understands that Manchester United would ideally like to sell him, but if his market worth is not met – they will allow him to remain on loan at Getafe.
Sources with knowledge of the situation confirm to HITC that Atletico and Barca are very keen to take him.
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With Antoine Griezmann, Memphis Depay and Alvaro Morata all in their 30s – Atletico firmly believe Greenwood could be part of their future.
Barca too are very fond of Greenwood and HITC has been told that some at the club are eager to bring him in to replace Brazilian Vitor Roque, who arrived in January.
As HITC revealed Barcelona are keen to loan Roque out this summer, but his people are pushing for a permanent move.
HITC understands Barca would be willing to offer Man United players for Greenwood, including Roque – but the Premier League club would prefer a straight sale, if he was to leave.
Getafe president wants to keep Mason Greenwood
Getafe president Angel Torres admitted this week that he was hopeful of keeping Greenwood.
“If it was up to the lad, his parents and the club, I think he would continue for another year,” Torres told Spanish radio station Radio Marca.
“Regarding Manchester United, the news that we have from last week, where the sporting director went to England to see some games and was with them, is that, if a good offer comes along, they would want to sell because he is not going to go back there. We’ll have to wait until the end of June. The people and the coach are very happy with him.
“I think he will remain with us for another season, or at least until January. He is a good footballer.”