Manchester United have set a date for a decision on Mason Greenwood’s future.
Last summer Greenwood departed United by mutual consent and joined Spanish club Getafe on a season-long loan upon the conclusion of internal investigation into his conduct.
In January 2022, the one-cap international was arrested on suspicion of rape, controlling behaviour and assault - charges which Greenwood vehemently denied and that were later dropped.
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He has since reignited his career in La Liga, scoring seven goals and registering five assists in 25 games for Getafe, with his performances have seen him linked to the likes of Barcelona and touted for a United return.
Indeed, United’s new minority owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe, who has taken charge of football operations at the club, last week left the door open for a Greenwood return.
Speaking to the Athletic, he said: "We need to look at facts, judge fairly and take into consideration what the values of the club are.
“Then we come out of that with a decision. It is not appropriate for me to comment on Mason Greenwood."
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According to Sun Sport, Ratcliffe wants to decide on Greenwood’s United future by the end of May.
Ratcliffe has allegedly tasked his team of advisers to make resolving the matter a “priority” between now and the end of the season.
The petrochemicals billionaire allegedly wants to speak to the fan groups and other senior club officials about Greenwood ahead of a final decision.
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The publication has alleged that while Erik ten Hag would welcome the return of the player, it would only be sanctioned if it “works for all parties".
An unnamed source told the publication: "Jim Ratcliffe wants it resolved by the end of May so they can go into the summer knowing what's happening.
"There's interest in Mason from Barcelona but no move and no talks will happen until the end of May. Right now, the view is that there is a 50/50 chance Mason could return.
"If it was a purely football decision he'd already be back. But it's not.
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"And Ratcliffe is acutely aware of the need to get this right and for all parties to be happy with whatever is decided."
Topics: Manchester United, Mason Greenwood, Premier League, La Liga, Getafe, Sir Jim Ratcliffe
Chris Byfield