MANCHESTER United’s on-field struggles and rumoured ownership change could see the club make a stunning U-turn over Mason Greenwood.
The 22-year-old striker was arrested in January last year following charges of attempted rape, assault and coercive control.
GettyMason Greenwood has been sent to Getafe on loan[/caption]
GettyBut Manchester United’s problems on and off the field could see him make a comeback[/caption]
The Crown Prosecution Service dropped all charges this February, and Greenwood maintains his innocence.
Manager Erik Ten Hag reportedly expected to have Greenwood back in his squad this season – before the striker was sent to Spanish side Getafe on loan following an outcry.
The Red Devils now need to replace French striker Anthony Martial, whose contract is up next July.
United are also reportedly mulling whether to dump Brazilian flop Antony, who plays in a similar position to Greenwood.
Greenwood’s loan spell at Getafe will end just before Martial leaves – and Ten Hag may be tempted to bring him back.
Any inkling that Greenwood could make an Old Trafford comeback will cause renewed outrage.
But United look set to be under new ownership by the summer, with INEOS boss Sir Jim Ratcliffe closing in on a 25 per cent minority stake.
Club boss Richard Arnold, who made the decision not to bring Greenwood back after the backlash, is expected to leave when the new ownership takes control.
Ratcliffe and whoever he appoints to run the club could take a new approach – and let Ten Hag bring Greenwood back.
But the tycoon will also want to make his mark at Old Trafford through a “statement signing”.
Any genuine superstar arrival would likely be a striker, meaning a potential Greenwood comeback would be off the cards permanently.
Greenwood also reportedly wants to stay at Getafe after settling in Spain, so Ratcliffe may well let him stay in La Liga permanently.