Tottenham rule out Greenwood move as United's sell-on clause looms over £47m Marseille exit

Tottenham have ruled out a move for Mason Greenwood, ending speculation of a Premier League return for the 24-year-old, who is expected to leave Marseille this summer in a deal that would trigger a sell-on clause in favour of Manchester United.

Greenwood has been one of the most productive attackers in Ligue 1 since joining Marseille, registering 48 goals and 17 assists in 81 appearances. That form placed him among the most sought-after forwards heading into the summer window, with Spurs briefly linked given the presence of his former manager Roberto De Zerbi in north London. Football London has confirmed, however, that the club have no interest in signing him.

De Zerbi had publicly praised Greenwood during his tenure at Marseille, describing him as a “good lad” who had “paid in a strong way” for what happened — a reference to the attempted rape and assault charges that were dropped against Greenwood in 2023. The comments drew significant fan backlash before De Zerbi’s appointment at Spurs was finalised, prompting the Italian to issue an apology.

“I have never wanted to downplay the issue of violence against women or violence against anyone more broadly,” De Zerbi said after joining Spurs. “I apologise to those who I offended with this subject matter. I have a daughter, and I’m very sensitive to these things and always have been.”

With Spurs out of the picture, attention turns to Serie A. Roma have been credited with interest in Greenwood, reportedly proposing an initial fee of around £35m (€40m), though Marseille are holding out for at least £47m (€55m) according to Corriere dello Sport. Reports suggest Roma could return with a revised offer of approximately £40m (€45m) plus add-ons.

Marseille are keen to conclude a deal before the end of June, with L’Equipe reporting the club will consider all offers. Any transfer will activate Manchester United’s sell-on clause, meaning the Old Trafford club stand to receive a meaningful financial return on the player they sold to Marseille on a permanent basis.