Manchester United 'could send Mason Greenwood on loan next season'

Manchester United are reportedly weighing up a season-long loan move for Mason Greenwood, as the club move closer to making a final decision on the forward's future.

The Red Devils are allegedly now in the latter stages of their internal investigation into the circumstances surrounding Greenwood's arrest in January 2022.

Greenwood has not turned out for the 20-time English champions since the start of last year, as he had been facing serious criminal charges following allegations from a woman.

The 21-year-old was initially arrested on suspicion of rape and assault, and he was then further arrested on suspicion of sexual assault and threats to kill.

The one-cap England player was also facing charges of attempted rape, engaging in controlling and coercive behaviour, and assault occasioning actual bodily harm, with a trial date set for later this year.

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However, all charges against him have now been dropped, meaning that he is free to resume his career.

Man United could yet decide to terminate Greenwood's contract, but Red Devils head coach Erik ten Hag recently suggested that the Englishman could have a future at Old Trafford.

According to the Daily Mail, the Red Devils are exploring the possibility of sending the forward on loan for the 2023-24 campaign ahead of a potential return to the senior squad for the 2024-25 season.

The report claims that a number of Italian, Spanish and Turkish clubs have already expressed an interest in acquiring the forward's services, either on loan or on a permanent basis.

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AC Milan, Juventus and Roma have all previously been credited with an interest, although it is unclear at this stage whether the trio would be open to a loan deal.

Greenwood still has two years left to run on his contract at Old Trafford, giving Man United flexibility if they do decide to keep hold of him this summer.

The forward has represented Man United on 129 occasions, scoring 35 goals and contributing 12 assists, and he was regarded as one of the best youngsters in world football before his arrest.

The club's final decision, which is further complicated due to the ownership situation, will allegedly take into account the views of sponsors, fan groups and the women's team.

There have been suggestions that an announcement could be made before the end of the month, although a timeframe has not been set by the club.