Mason Greenwood’s re-emergence in European football has drawn the attention of Saudi Pro League giants Al Nassr, with reports suggesting the club is considering a big-money move for the former Manchester United forward.
However, Marseille, where Greenwood currently plays, remain firm that he is not for sale.
He left Manchester United for Marseille in July 2024 for Euro 26.6 million, ending a turbulent chapter at Old Trafford.
Greenwood’s exit came after serious charges, including attempted rape and assault, were dropped in February 2023. Despite the legal resolution, United conducted an internal review and decided to part ways with the academy graduate.
Initially linked with a move to Saudi Arabia during that period, Greenwood’s potential transfer was shelved due to concerns over the negative publicity it might generate. Instead, the forward joined La Liga side Getafe on loan, where he rebuilt his career before securing a permanent move to Ligue 1.
The 22-year-old has since flourished in France. After scoring 21 goals in Ligue 1 last season, he has continued his fine form into pre-season, netting six times in five matches. This explosive return has reportedly prompted Al Nassr, Cristiano Ronaldo’s club, to revisit the idea of signing him as they look to strengthen their attack following Jhon Duran’s loan departure to Fenerbahce.
Despite the growing speculation, any deal for Greenwood would come at a hefty price. Marseille are understood to value the forward at more than £85 million, and even such an offer may not be enough to sway their stance. Sporting director Mehdi Benatia has been unequivocal about the player’s future.
“Greenwood will stay with us. He is not for sale,” Benatia said.
He further emphasized Greenwood’s importance to the squad, adding: “We want to keep him and consider him a key part of OM’s project for the upcoming season.”
Another factor complicating a potential transfer is Manchester United’s 50 percent sell-on clause.
Any sale would see half the fee return to Old Trafford, reducing Marseille’s profit. For example, an £85 million move would bring the French club only around £30 million in net gain, making it less enticing from a financial standpoint.
Greenwood, who is now a central figure in Marseille’s attack, is set to have a new strike partner this season after Pierre-EmerickAubameyangrejoined the club from Al Qadsiah. The veteran forward’s arrival could further boost Marseille’s attacking options as they aim to compete for domestic and European honors. While a move to the Middle East appears unlikely this summer, questions remain about whether Greenwood would entertain such a switch later in his career, particularly given the lucrative offers Saudi clubs have made to European stars in recent years. For now, Marseille seem determined to keep their star forward, as he continues to rebuild his reputation and thrive in France.
