Manchester United could pocket €50 million in 2026 — not from a new signing, but from a player they let go. Former forward Mason Greenwood, now thriving at Olympique de Marseille, has ignited a transfer frenzy across Europe, and his old club holds a 50% sell-on clause that could turn out to be one of the shrewdest financial moves in recent memory. The news broke on October 22, 2025, when journalist Graeme Bailey confirmed to United In Focus that United’s deal with Marseille includes this extraordinary provision — one they’re treating as a lucky bonus, not a lifeline.
From Suspension to Stardom
Greenwood’s journey since leaving Manchester United in September 2023 has been anything but linear. After being suspended in 2022 amid serious criminal allegations, his case was dropped by the Crown Prosecution Service in 2023 — a twist that allowed him to restart his career. He spent the 2023/24 season on loan at Getafe Club de Fútbol, scoring 10 goals in 36 appearances. Then, in summer 2024, Marseille signed him permanently. And he exploded.
In the 2024/25 season, he netted 22 goals in 36 Ligue 1 games. As of October 22, 2025 — just 10 matches into the current campaign — he’s already scored seven goals and added four assists. He’s not just scoring; he’s carrying the team. His pace, clinical finishing, and movement have made him one of the most feared attackers in France. “He’s showing up as one of the best players in France,” Bailey said. “And clubs are taking notice.”
Who’s Watching? Barcelona, Spurs, and West Ham
It’s not just Marseille fans who are excited. FC Barcelona, desperate for a goalscorer after years of rebuilding, are actively scouting him. So are two London giants: Tottenham Hotspur Football Club and West Ham United Football Club. All three see Greenwood as a perfect fit — a young, proven striker who can play on the counter, lead a line, and thrive in high-pressure leagues.
Barcelona’s interest isn’t surprising. They’ve been chasing English talent since the departure of Robert Lewandowski’s successor failed to materialize. Spurs, under Ange Postecoglou, are rebuilding with pace and power — Greenwood fits that profile perfectly. West Ham, under Julen Lopetegui, need a clinical finisher to complement Michail Antonio and Jarrod Bowen. A £80–100 million transfer fee isn’t out of the question.
The €50 Million Secret
Here’s where it gets fascinating. When Manchester United sold Greenwood to Marseille in 2024, they didn’t get a massive upfront fee — reports suggest around €10 million. But they negotiated a 50% sell-on clause. That means if Greenwood moves for €100 million in 2026, United walk away with €50 million. For a club still recovering from financial missteps and a €1.2 billion debt load, that’s a game-changer.
Yet here’s the twist: United aren’t counting on it. “They believe they will be receiving a ‘significant’ sell-on fee... but they see it as a bonus rather than something they are relying on,” Bailey reported. Chief Executive Officer Omar Berrada and Sporting Director Dan Ashworth are reportedly aware of the clause’s potential — but it’s not in any budget. No signings are being planned around it. No debts are being paid with it. It’s a windfall they’re hoping for, not banking on.
Why This Matters Beyond the Money
This isn’t just about cash. It’s about legacy. Greenwood was once seen as the future — a £30 million signing, a prodigy who could have replaced Cristiano Ronaldo’s shadow. His fall from grace was brutal. The club’s decision to let him go, rather than fight a public battle, was criticized at the time. Now? It looks visionary.
For the first time in years, United have a player who left under controversy and is now thriving — and they’re getting paid for it. It’s a quiet redemption story, wrapped in a financial win. And it’s a reminder: clubs that get player sales right — not just the upfront fee, but the long-term clauses — can thrive even in turbulent times.
Greenwood’s contract with Marseille runs until 2027. That gives clubs until the summer of 2026 to make their move. Any offer above €80 million will trigger a clause that benefits United. If it hits €100 million, they get €50 million — more than they spent on their entire 2023 summer transfer window.
What’s Next?
Expect whispers to turn into concrete bids by December 2025. Marseille, aware of Greenwood’s value, will likely demand €110–120 million to let him go. But with Premier League clubs flush with cash and Barcelona desperate to rebuild, the pressure will mount. If Greenwood keeps scoring — and he’s on pace for 35+ goals this season — the fee could climb even higher.
For Manchester United, it’s a rare moment of quiet satisfaction. They didn’t sell him cheap. They didn’t force him out. They let him go — and now, they’re being rewarded for it. Not with headlines, but with bank transfers.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much could Manchester United actually receive from Mason Greenwood’s next transfer?
If Greenwood is sold for €100 million in 2026, Manchester United would receive €50 million under their 50% sell-on clause. Industry analysts believe his market value could reach €110–120 million if he maintains his current form, meaning United could net up to €60 million. That’s more than their entire 2023 summer transfer spend and could cover a significant portion of their 2026 wage bill.
Why didn’t Manchester United keep Mason Greenwood despite his talent?
Greenwood was suspended in 2022 over serious criminal allegations. Though the Crown Prosecution Service dropped the charges in 2023, the club opted for a clean break to avoid ongoing media turmoil. They didn’t want to risk his presence affecting team dynamics or commercial partnerships. The 50% sell-on clause was negotiated as part of his permanent transfer to Marseille — a move that now looks like a masterstroke.
Is Mason Greenwood’s current form sustainable?
His 2025/26 stats — 7 goals and 4 assists in 10 games — are extraordinary, but he’s also playing for a Marseille side that’s currently top of Ligue 1 and attacking aggressively. His shot conversion rate is 35%, well above the league average of 12%. If he stays fit and Marseille’s system holds, 30+ goals is realistic. But Premier League defenses are more physical — he’ll need to adapt quickly to maintain that level.
Why is Barcelona interested in a player who left England under controversy?
Barcelona’s squad lacks a natural No. 9, and their recent signings have underperformed. They prioritize talent over reputation when it comes to attacking players — as seen with their pursuit of players like Raphinha and Robert Lewandowski. Greenwood’s goal record in France speaks louder than his past. Plus, Ligue 1 is less scrutinized than the Premier League, making him a lower-risk, high-reward target.
What’s the likelihood of Greenwood returning to the Premier League?
Very high. With Tottenham, West Ham, and possibly even Arsenal or Liverpool monitoring him, a return is more likely than a move to Spain. The Premier League’s financial power, combined with Greenwood’s English roots and familiarity with the style, makes a return almost inevitable — unless Barcelona offer a record fee for a French striker. Even then, he’d likely be loaned back to Marseille for another season.
How does this sell-on clause compare to other famous examples in football?
It’s among the most valuable in recent memory. Similar clauses include Chelsea’s 20% on N’Golo Kanté’s sale to Juventus (which netted them €3 million) and Manchester City’s 10% on Raheem Sterling’s move to Liverpool (€1.5 million). United’s 50% on Greenwood could generate €50 million — one of the highest proportional returns ever. It’s the kind of clause that turns a modest sale into a legacy deal.