Greenwood exit from Marseille edges closer as club face European expulsion

Mason Greenwood looks increasingly likely to leave Marseille this summer, with the Ligue 1 club facing potential expulsion from the Europa League due to mounting financial losses — a situation that could trigger Manchester United’s sell-on clause and deliver a significant windfall to Old Trafford.

Marseille have recorded net losses of €157 million (£136m) over the past three seasons and face scrutiny from UEFA’s Club Financial Control Body, which is set to examine the club’s finances. L’Equipe has reported that expulsion from the Europa League is a genuine possibility, and French football’s financial watchdog could impose a wage cap on the club. Marseille’s new sporting director, Gregory Lorenzi, has publicly acknowledged that the club are open to offers for Greenwood.

“He is one of the players that we are really thinking about with regard to their future,” Lorenzi told L’Equipe. “If an opportunity presents itself, naturally, we will think about it. But there is the club’s position, that of the player. It is also up to us to manage internally to find the best possible solution for all parties.”

Greenwood has emerged as a priority target for both candidates vying for the Fenerbahce presidency ahead of a vote due on Sunday. BBC Sport reports that Aziz Yildirim and Hakan Safi, who are competing for the role, are both keen on signing the 24-year-old this summer, and personal terms are not expected to be a sticking point. Greenwood has also been linked with a move to Serie A side AS Roma.

United sold Greenwood to Marseille in 2024 for £26.6 million after conducting their own internal investigation following the dropping of criminal charges against him. Prosecutors discontinued the case in 2023 citing the withdrawal of key witnesses and new material that came to light. As part of the sale, United negotiated a sell-on clause that would entitle them to a percentage of any future transfer fee.

Since joining Marseille, Greenwood has scored 48 goals in 81 appearances and finished last season as the joint-second highest scorer in Ligue 1, level with several rivals and behind only Rennes striker Esteban Lepaul. Despite that productivity, his position at the club has grown uncertain as Marseille’s financial crisis deepens.

Should Marseille lose their Europa League status for next season, Greenwood’s incentive to seek a move elsewhere would only increase — and United’s financial position could improve as a result.