La Liga club Barcelona have cooled their interest in Manchester United striker Mason Greenwood, according to The Times.
The Catalans believe that signing the Getafe loanee would be too costly and could provoke a backlash among their fans.
The 22-year-old had charges of attempted rape, controlling and coercive behaviour, and assault against him dropped in February 2023.
He was sent out on loan as both parties agreed the decision was in their best interests following a backlash from several quarters.
Barca have been monitoring Greenwood since his move to the Spanish top-flight. His return of eight goals and five assists has impressed them, but they have opted against signing him.
However, Atletico Madrid are keen but unwilling to pay top dollar to land him.
Man United are expected to cash in on the striker despite Sir Jim Ratcliffe claiming his future at the Theatre of the Dreams is yet to be finalised.
They may need to lower their demands because selling him would be as pure profit in their calculations for the Premier League’s Profit and Sustainability Rules or UEFA’s Financial Fair Play regulations.
His £75,000-per-week salary could be a stumbling block for Getafe as they are keen on signing him permanently, and he will need to move elsewhere to keep earning something similar.
Barca withdrawing their interest is a massive blow for Greenwood and Man United, and it is safe to say a move to another big club could be difficult for him due to his legal battles.
Saudi Pro League clubs could be willing to meet their demands, but Jordan Henderson leaving after six months has sent a message to others that the grass is not always greener on the other side.
