Mason Greenwood’s anticipated transfer has taken an unexpected turn, with the English winger now poised to join Turkish giants Fenerbahçe rather than Italian side AS Roma. The move comes after Marseille’s financial constraints and squad restructuring efforts led them to prioritize Greenwood’s departure.
The sudden shift in destination has sparked reactions in European football circles, particularly in Italy, where AS Roma had been keen to secure Greenwood’s services under manager Gian Piero Gasperini. The club’s ambition to reinforce their squad with a high-profile attacking option now faces an unforeseen obstacle.
Financial pressures drive om’s decision
Marseille’s need to balance their budget and reduce their wage bill has pushed them toward a pragmatic solution. Greenwood, despite his talent, represents a financial burden that clubs in Ligue 1 and Serie A find hard to justify. Fenerbahçe, on the other hand, appears to have met the necessary requirements to finalize the deal, offering a more viable path for the player’s transfer.
italian experts question the move
Italian football pundits have voiced skepticism over Greenwood’s potential move to Fenerbahçe. Journalist Roberto Pruzzo highlighted the risks of such negotiations, stating, « Greenwood’s case is one that rarely ends well. Uncertainty lingers over whether the player truly wanted to join Roma, only for him to end up at Fenerbahçe. It’s rare to hear, ‘This is the player I want,’ and have the deal completed within hours. »
Another analyst, Fernando Orsi, added, « Football doesn’t stop for Greenwood. His reliability as a person is questionable, and with half the transfer fee, clubs could secure a player who better suits Gasperini’s vision. The World Cup serves as a showcase for talents like Greenwood, but his off-field issues raise concerns. »
roma’s plan b takes shape
Paolo Marcacci suggested that AS Roma could pivot to alternative targets, such as Brazilian midfielder Moreira, whose stock has risen following strong performances in the World Cup. « Moreira is a top-tier player whose profile aligns perfectly with Gasperini’s philosophy, » Marcacci noted. « His value has surged, and he could be a better long-term investment than Greenwood, especially considering the financial strain Greenwood’s wages would impose. Clubs in Italy may struggle to match his demands, and Roma’s Champions League ambitions add further complexity. »
