Manchester United are facing a defining summer regarding their long-term squad strategy, with the club weighing up their contractual options for Mason Greenwood and the future of captain Bruno Fernandes.
The situation surrounding Greenwood remains a point of intense internal discussion. After an internal investigation and a successful loan spell at Getafe, the 24-year-old was sold to Marseille for £26 million last summer. However, the Red Devils ensured they remained “protected” by including two crucial clauses in the deal with the French giants.
The Greenwood Clauses: Buy-Back and Sell-On
Greenwood’s prolific form in Ligue 1 has already ignited interest from European heavyweights, including Barcelona and Atlético Madrid. Should Marseille decide to sell, Manchester United are entitled to 50% of the future transfer fee.
More intriguingly, United reportedly hold a buy-back option. While a return to Old Trafford remains a sensitive subject for the club’s fanbase and stakeholders, the existence of the clause gives the INEOS-led board significant leverage in the market either to bring the player back or to facilitate a highly profitable move elsewhere.
Bruno Fernandes: The Saudi Temptation
While rumors swirl about potential sales to fund a summer overhaul, Manchester United’s stance on Bruno Fernandes appears firm. Despite lucrative interest from the Saudi Pro League, the club’s management has no intention of losing their captain.
The board is expected to enter fresh talks with the Portuguese playmaker to discuss his role in the project for the 2026/27 season. Fernandes remains the creative heartbeat of the team, and United view his leadership as “non-negotiable” for the upcoming transition under the new sporting direction.
Balancing the Books
With the club needing to comply with Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR), the 50% sell-on clause from a potential Greenwood move to Spain could provide the necessary funds to reinforce the midfield without having to sacrifice stars like Fernandes.
James Horan is a football writer focused on the Premier League transfer market, covering confirmed signings, transfer rumors, and club strategies during the transfer windows.
