Man Utd set to extend Mason Greenwood contract as Sir Jim Ratcliffe decides next step

Manchester United may extend Mason Greenwood's contract before the end of the campaign, with Sir Jim Ratcliffe set to make a fresh decision on the 22-year-old's future. Greenwood has been spending the season on loan at Getafe after being shipped out by the Red Devils on a temporary basis last year.

Greenwood was loaned to Getafe after charges of attempted rape, controlling and coercive behaviour and assault occasioning actual bodily harm were dropped last February. United conducted their own internal investigation, after which they decided to ship him out in response to backlash from fans, women's support groups and members of staff.

The Red Devils said in a statement that it would be 'most appropriate' for Greenwood to resume his career away from Old Trafford, but it seems Ratcliffe could hand him a lifeline when he returns from Getafe. The INEOS chief said last month that a final decision had not yet been made over Greenwood's future, with the verdict set to be based on 'the facts, not the hype'.

It would make sense for Greenwood's contract to be renewed regardless of whether he stays or goes, with his current deal set to expire in 2025. The club still have the option to trigger an extra year, which would allow them to protect his value from a financial standpoint.

As things stand, United face a dilemma over whether to sell Greenwood in the summer or risk losing him for nothing at the end of next season. Interested clubs might be tempted to submit lowball offers in the knowledge that United's hand may be forced if Greenwood's contract is not extended.

A move away from United still appears to be the most likely outcome, with The Athletic reporting that Greenwood would be 'reluctant to accept' a return to Old Trafford even if the Red Devils are willing to take him back. He is said to recognise that he would face greater levels of scrutiny in England than he does in Spain, where he has been largely out of the limelight.

Getafe are thought to be keen on signing Greenwood permanently, but there are concerns they might be priced out of a move for his signature. Other clubs in La Liga have been credited with a desire to land the former England ace, with Barcelona and Atletico Madrid said to be among his admirers.

It remains to be seen what the future will hold for Greenwood, who has scored seven goals in all competitions for Getafe over the course of this season. Former United defender Paul Parker recently explained that it will be 'difficult' for United to come to a final decision, saying: "From a football point of view, it would save the club fortunes because he would make an instant impact.

"He would be, excusing [Rasmus] Hojlund, the best front player they’ve got. You put him on one of those sides of the pitch, the wide areas, and he could do more in 90 minutes than what anyone else has in a season and a half. It’s as simple as that. He would play and give everything. It’s such a difficult one."

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