MASON Greenwood’s career faces being left in tatters as he faces being used as a pawn by Manchester United to net a striker rumoured to be worth £50m.
Greenwood, 21, has not played since January last year when he was arrested after allegations of physical and sexual abuse.
It has now emerged that Serie A club Atalanta are interested in signing the forward on loan, according to the Manchester Evening News.
Manchester United football director John Murtough has reportedly held talks with the Italian side as part of a deal to sign Rasmus Hojlund.
The Danish striker scored nine goals in 32 games last season and is one of United’s targets this summer.
The Red Devils believe they can net the 20-year-old for around £50 million, the Telegraph reported.
Greenwood was charged with attempted rape, assault and controlling and coercive behaviour, but the CPS dropped its case in February.
The £75,000-a-week star has been suspended on full pay ever since.
United bosses will rule on his future this month.
And boss Erik ten Hag is said to be willing to let the Bradford-born player back in the squad.
The club started their own investigation when claims against Greenwood came to light.
Ten Hag will now decide what to do based on the findings and believes there is a place for the England international in the team, reports The Athletic.
Negotiations over Greenwood’s review have taken longer than expected with some speculating he’ll be kicked to the curb, the outlet continued.
However, it shows the club’s “thoroughness and seriousness” during their investigation.
The Sun understands most of his team-mates at Old Trafford would welcome him back into the dressing room if the club agrees.
However, it could trigger a wave of controversy after United’s women players called for Greenwood to go earlier this year.
A source claimed Greenwood and his teammates made it clear to United owners Glazer – who will be making the final call – that they need to “sack him or back him”.
The source said: “Mason was delighted to hear that the manager and most of his team-mates would welcome him back.
“He firmly believes he is an innocent man and is very frustrated he’s not been able to play.
“He understands that the club have had to carry out an investigation, but he feels like his career is slipping by.
“He and his team have made clear to United that they now want to know what is happening.
“They have basically said, ‘sack him or back him’.
“If they want to reintegrate him, then do so. If they want to sell him, then tell him.
“And if they want to loan him out, then tell them so his team can find the best club for him.”
The Sun revealed that his former boss Jose Mourinho has telephoned Greenwood to sound him out about a loan move to Roma.
Greenwood is set to become a dad later this month, with his partner enjoying a baby shower with pals this weekend.
