Olympique de Marseille has firmly addressed burgeoning speculation surrounding forward Mason Greenwood’s future, insisting the prolific player is not for sale despite considerable interest from the Saudi Pro League.
Reports originating from French media outlets earlier this week indicated that several clubs within the cash-rich Saudi Pro League had expressed a keen desire to acquire the 23-year-old, who enjoyed a highly successful previous campaign, netting 21 goals in Ligue 1. This interest ignited widespread discussion about a potential high-profile transfer.
However, Marseille’s Sporting Director, Mehdi Benatia, has decisively quelled these rumors. In a direct statement, Benatia affirmed, “Greenwood will stay with us. He is not for sale,” putting a definitive end to the immediate transfer chatter.
These resolute comments by Benatia effectively undermine prior suggestions that Marseille might consider capitalizing on Greenwood, who moved to the French side from Manchester United last summer in a deal valued at £27 million, with an additional £3.2 million in potential add-ons. Manchester United reportedly retains a significant 50 percent sell-on clause in the agreement, meaning a sale would have yielded substantial profit for the English club.
French newspaper L’Equipe had previously estimated that Marseille could command a transfer fee in the vicinity of €50 million (£44 million) for the talented forward if they were to sanction a departure. Yet, Marseille’s firm stance underscores their commitment to retaining their number 10, recognizing his pivotal role under head coach Roberto De Zerbi’s leadership.
Greenwood has exhibited sensational form throughout the pre-season, showcasing his continued prowess by scoring six goals in recent friendlies. His impressive tally includes a notable header against Sevilla and a hat-trick against Dutch side Excelsior Maassluis last month, reinforcing his importance to the squad.
Head coach Roberto De Zerbi has consistently lauded the former England international’s abilities, famously stating in April that “Greenwood is a natural talent, thanks to his mother and father.” De Zerbi also expressed his ambition for Greenwood to be remembered among the great players at the club, emphasizing his coaching efforts to help him achieve that elite level.
This summer has also seen Greenwood gain a new strike partner in Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, who has rejoined Marseille following a season with Al Qadsiah in the Saudi Pro League. Aubameyang, having played with former teammates who spoke highly of Greenwood, has publicly expressed his happiness at the English forward’s presence in the team.
Last season, Mason Greenwood netted a remarkable 22 goals across all competitions, playing a crucial role in Marseille securing a second-placed finish in Ligue 1 and subsequently earning a return to the prestigious Champions League. This marked a significant return to professional football for Greenwood, who had not played since January 2022 due to his arrest on suspicion of raping and assaulting a woman, charges that were later dropped.
