Real Sociedad 'step up interest in Mason Greenwood'

Real Sociedad have reportedly emerged as the favourites to sign Mason Greenwood from Manchester United during next summer's transfer window.

The Red Devils had allegedly made the decision to bring Greenwood back into the fold over the summer before changing their minds due to the public backlash.

As a result, the Englishman made a loan switch to Getafe on transfer deadline day, and he has featured on 12 occasions for the capital side this term, scoring four goals and registering three assists.

Greenwood has two goals and three assists in 11 La Liga outings this term, while he scored twice in his first appearance in the Copa del Rey against Tardienta at the start of November.

The 22-year-old has a contract at Man United until June 2025, and there have recently been hints that his career with the 20-time English champions could be revived.

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Journalist Jamie Jackson recently hinted at a return to the first team for Greenwood, while transfer expert Fabrizio Romano has said that incoming minority shareholder Sir Jim Ratcliffe is currently discussing the forward's future, with a decision likely to be made towards the end of the season.

Greenwood is believed to have settled well in Spain with his family, and a number of La Liga clubs are thought to be keeping a close eye on his situation.

Getafe are believed to be determined to sign him on a permanent basis, while Valencia have also been credited with an interest.

However, according to TodoFichajes, Real Sociedad are at the head of the queue, with the Basque outfit emerging as the favourites to sign him on a permanent basis.

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Last January, following accusations from a woman, the Man United academy product was arrested on suspicion of rape and assault, and he was then further arrested on suspicion of sexual assault and threats to kill.

Greenwood, who has scored 35 goals and registered 12 assists in 129 matches for the Red Devils, was also facing charges of attempted rape, engaging in controlling and coercive behaviour, and assault occasioning actual bodily harm, but there is no longer a case against him.

A recent report claimed that a number of Premier League clubs were also keeping a close eye on his situation.

Greenwood's last appearance for Man United came against West Ham United in January 2022.

Red Devils head coach Erik ten Hag is believed to have been planning for the academy product to be in the squad this season before the matter was taken out of his hands.