Atlético Madrid have emerged as the frontrunners to sign Mason Greenwood from Olympique de Marseille, offering the player a five-year contract, according to L’Équipe. The Spanish club is one of two to have made formal offers for Greenwood, the other being Fenerbahçe, but appears to have gained the player’s preference. Atlético’s proposal includes a net salary of between €5-6 million per season, alongside a share of image rights.
Fenerbahçe had also submitted a bid, offering a four-year deal with a higher net salary of €7-8 million per season. However, Atlético are attempting to appeal to Greenwood with a vision of sporting progression, positioning him as a potential long-term successor to Antoine Griezmann. Club officials reportedly believe a successful spell at Atlético could eventually open the door for a return to the Premier League in the future. They have also highlighted Fenerbahçe’s pursuit of alternative attacking options, including Malcom, currently at Al Hilal, and Luiz Henrique of Zenit.
Greenwood’s prior experience in Spanish football with Getafe during the 2023-2024 season is believed to be a significant factor in his leaning towards Atlético. The 24-year-old has reportedly informed both Atlético’s management and his teammates at Marseille of his preference to return to Madrid. Diego Simeone, currently in the United States, has reportedly approved the signing and intends to speak with Greenwood directly.
The financial details of the proposed transfer differ between the two offers. Atlético’s bid is reported to be €45 million with a further €5 million in potential bonuses, exceeding Fenerbahçe’s offer of €40 million plus bonuses. A complicating factor for Marseille has been a clause inserted into Greenwood’s contract, stipulating that he receive 8.5% of any transfer fee. This was intended to offset a lower salary, but Greenwood reportedly waived this entitlement in Fenerbahçe’s offer and appears to have done the same with Atlético. This development simplifies the deal for both Atlético and Marseille, removing a significant financial hurdle.
Greenwood joined Marseille in September 2023 following the termination of his contract with Manchester United. He scored 12 goals in 31 appearances for the French club across all competitions, becoming a key player in their attack. His form attracted interest from several clubs, but Atlético’s combination of sporting ambition and financial package appears to have won him over. The transfer will likely strengthen Atlético’s attacking options ahead of the new La Liga season.
