Mason Greenwood handed new Man Utd escape route as Barcelona dealt transfer blow

06 February 2024 , 19:30

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Mason Greenwood is on Atletico Madrid's list of forward targets (Image: Getty Images)

Atletico Madrid are considering a summer move for Mason Greenwood as they try to bolster their forward line.

The 22-year-old, who joined Getafe on loan from Manchester United in September, has scored seven goals and provided four assists in 22 appearances this season. Greenwood netted the opener from the penalty spot in Getafe's 1-1 draw at Real Betis on Sunday - six days after finding the net against Granada.

Greenwood has been impressive at Getafe and his form is attracting interest from Atletico as well as other La Liga rivals, including Barcelona. According to The Telegraph, Greenwood is on Atletico's list of forward transfer targets after a deal for ex-Everton striker Moise Kean fell through during the January window.

Back in August, United agreed for Greenwood to resume his career away from Old Trafford after they concluded an internal six-month investigation. The striker was arrested in October 2022 and was subsequently charged with attempted rape, engaging in controlling and coercive behaviour, and assault occasioning actual bodily harm. Those charges were later dropped by the Crown Prosecution Service.

Getafe announced the signing of Greenwood on transfer deadline day and he has made an impact after returning to football for the first time in 20 months. He grabbed an assist on his first start for the club against Athletic Bilbao, before scoring his first goal in a 2-2 draw with Celta Vigo on October 8.

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Greenwood has less than 18 months left on his deal at United and could leave on a permanent deal in the summer. Getafe are thought to be keen to secure the long-term services of Greenwood, while Barcelona are also interested in the forward despite their limited spending power in the transfer market.

Last Thursday, Greenwood was in the spotlight when Getafe filled a complaint after Real Madrid midfielder Jude Bellingham allegedly called him a "rapist". La Liga have launched an official investigation into the slur aimed at Greenwood.

(Getty Images)

Speaking on Saturday, Getafe boss Jose Bordales defended Greenwood, who went on to score in the 1-1 draw against Betis. "I know the same thing that you know," Bordalos told a press conference. "It's not up to me, it's the club, La Liga and the (Spanish Football) Federation (RFEF) that have to make an assessment about it.

"The only thing that I can say is that I ask for respect for Mason Greenwood because he is a great guy. He is a man who respects everyone and has exemplary behaviour."

Kieran King