Marseille’s president Pablo Longoria has confirmed a boost for Manchester United after revealing that a clause has been activated in Mason Greenwood’s contract.
Manchester United suspended Mason Greenwood in January 2022 following his arrest on serious charges, which were later dropped in early 2023 after witnesses withdrew and new evidence emerged.
Following an internal investigation, United concluded that Greenwood should continue his career away from the club. He was loaned to Getafe in 2023, where he impressed with 10 goals and six assists, earning a £26 million transfer to Marseille the following summer.
Since joining the French side, Greenwood has scored 22 goals and provided six assists in 36 appearances, playing a key role in helping Marseille secure Champions League qualification for next season.
His performances have sparked interest from several clubs, with reports suggesting that even some Premier League teams are considering a move for the forward.
Marseille president confirms Greenwood clause activated
United’s sale of Greenwood for just over £25 million was far less than the £40 million they were searching for at the beginning of last summer.
However, the favourable terms in the agreement with Marseille convinced the Reds to accept the cut-price deal for the 23-year-old. That included a 50-per-cent sell-on clause which would come into play if the French club do sell the player in the coming transfer windows.
But the Ligue 1 side’s president has now confirmed that there is also a clause involving Champions League qualification, something which seems unprecedented in recent United sale history, and that they are now set to pay United extra cash after Greenwood helped them reach that goal.
Explaining the situation, Pablo Longoria told reporters: “Regarding his contractual situation, we purchased 50% of the player’s economic rights, representing his entire value.
“This was the only way to make an offer that was higher than those made by other clubs to Manchester United. This arrangement was also made possible by the player’s desire to join Olympique de Marseille.
“Qualifying for the Champions League means we are obliged to purchase an additional percentage, around 10%, which allows us to increase our ownership stake in the player. This is part of the initial agreement and also demonstrates our desire to invest in him for the long term.”
United will focus on their own sales
United are looking for cash this summer as they prepare for a busy transfer window, and an extra payment from Marseille would help their cause.
However, while the exact fee of the clause is unknown, it is unlikely to rival the amount United would get if they end up selling Greenwood this summer.
Read More: Mason Greenwood clarifies Marseille future amid Premier League return links as Man Utd impacted
But United should be focusing on their own sales, with a host of players likely to be leaving if suitable deals can be found.
Greenwood’s future is out of their hands, but they will be getting something out of that situation ahead of the summer window.
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