Mason Greenwood has reportedly agreed in principle to join Roma this summer, choosing the Italian capital over a highly lucrative offer from Turkish side Fenerbahce. The ex-Manchester United striker is said to have formed a ‘gentleman’s agreement’ with Roma manager Gian Piero Gasperini after a series of discreet phone conversations convinced him to make the switch to Serie A.
Gasperini wins Greenwood’s trust
The English forward has settled on a provisional five-year contract with Roma, estimated to be worth around €4.5 million per year. As reported by La Gazzetta dello Sport, despite strong competition from Fenerbahce and substantial interest from Saudi Arabia, Greenwood has been persuaded by the opportunity to play a pivotal role in Gasperini’s tactical transformation at the Stadio Olimpico. The Italian coach reportedly asked him, “Are you ready to run?”, to which Greenwood replied with a firm “yes”.
Although personal terms have been agreed, negotiations between Roma and Marseille are ongoing due to a €5 million difference in valuation. Roma are preparing a €45 million offer, including bonuses, while Marseille continue to demand €50 million. The French side are in no rush to lower their price, particularly as Fenerbahce’s bid remains on the table, featuring an eye-catching salary package of €7–8 million net per season — a figure Roma cannot match.
Manchester United’s financial interest and Marseille’s stance
Officials at Old Trafford are following developments closely. Manchester United hold a 40 per cent sell-on clause from any future transfer involving Greenwood, meaning a €50 million sale would bring them around €20 million in additional income. This clause is a major factor behind Marseille’s refusal to reduce their asking price, as they aim to maximise profits after signing the forward for €31.6 million in 2024.
Greenwood has reportedly grown frustrated in France and urged Marseille’s management to “let me go” as he seeks to finalise his next move before pre-season preparations intensify. Although he attended the club’s training centre this week for fitness assessments, sources close to the player have reassured Roma that the Stadio Olimpico remains his first choice — largely due to the appeal of UEFA Champions League football.
Supporter backlash and ethical concerns
However, not all Roma fans have welcomed the potential transfer. A section of supporters has launched an online petition opposing the signing, citing Greenwood’s past off-field controversies and legal troubles. They argue that bringing him in would conflict with the club’s “Amami e Basta” campaign against gender-based violence.
The fan statement explained: “This stance is not motivated by personal hostility or a belief that people cannot rebuild their careers. It stems from the conviction that every football club has both the right and the responsibility to decide who represents its badge. Greenwood has been involved in several serious off-field incidents, including disciplinary breaches with the England national team and allegations of domestic and sexual violence that drew global attention.”
Gasperini’s tactical blueprint for Greenwood
On the field, Gasperini reportedly envisions a specific tactical role for the 24-year-old. He plans to deploy Greenwood in a central position within his 3-4-2-1 formation, most likely on the right side of a dual attacking midfield setup behind the main striker. The promise of such a key role, combined with the chance to compete in Europe’s premier competition, has led Greenwood to overlook interest from Atletico Madrid.
Roma are now working to close the remaining €5 million gap with Marseille. With approval from the Friedkin Group already secured, today could prove to be decisive in concluding a transfer saga connecting Manchester, Marseille, and Rome. Should the deal be finalised, it would set a new club record for Roma, surpassing the €42 million paid for Patrik Schick.
