Mayor to Marseille: Don't sign Greenwood deal

The Marseille mayor, Benoit Payan, has publicly requested the club not to sign Manchester United's Mason Greenwood, citing Greenwood's alleged past behavior as "unspeakable" and "unacceptable."

This comes after reports from ESPN suggested that Marseille and Manchester United had reached an agreement for the permanent transfer of the 22-year-old forward.

The mayor's statement specifically addresses allegations of domestic violence against Greenwood, stating that he does not want his club to be associated with someone who "hits his wife."

Greenwood has not played for Manchester United since January 2022 when he was arrested on suspicion of rape and assault. He was later charged with attempted rape, engaging in controlling and coercive behavior, and assault occasioning actual bodily harm, but the charges were dropped due to the withdrawal of key witnesses and new material that came to light.

In response to the controversy, Marseille Manager Roberto De Zerbi said he would not "prejudge" Greenwood and would treat him like a son if he joined the club.

This situation highlights the complex dilemma facing clubs who must balance the talent of a player with the potential reputational risks associated with them.