Former Manchester United forward Mason Greenwood has faced criticism, being labeled a “mercenary” by Lazio after a failed £22 million ($28 million) transfer bid, Soccernet.football reports.
Greenwood, who was cleared to resume his professional career after charges of attempted rape, assault, and coercive behaviour were dropped in February 2023, initially moved on loan to Getafe in La Liga.
His performances in Spain attracted interest from various European clubs, including Lazio. However, Greenwood ultimately transferred to Marseille for £27 million ($34 million), seeking a fresh start in France.
Lazio’s sporting director, Angelo Fabiani, expressed his thoughts on the situation during an interview with LazioStyleRadio.
He explained why the Serie A club decided against pursuing Greenwood: “We wanted Greenwood last year, then there was a hitch with the player – you all know what Greenwood’s problem was.
“An agent this year approached us with the idea of Greenwood moving to Italy. We gave him a deadline, from there an auction was unleashed and I thought I could go up to a certain limit.”
Fabiani added, “We offered £22m for 50 per cent of the player, we’re talking about €26m. He preferred to take another path and I say that the best deals are those that aren’t made. I want [Nicolo] Rovella, [Mattia] Zaccagni, players who love the environment where they work.
“I don’t want these mercenaries, it’s lucky not to make certain deals. I could sell myself for €50,000 more but I have values that my parents passed on to me. If he’s taken another path, we wish Greenwood the best of luck.”
Greenwood, who was named Getafe’s Player of the Year last season, scored his first goal for Marseille in a friendly match against Pau FC.
He is now committed to a long-term contract with the French club until 2029, with Manchester United including a sell-on clause in the agreement.
