Explained: Why cash-strapped Barcelona are 'highly unlikely' to pursue £40m transfer for Man Utd outcast Mason Greenwood

The Blaugrana are said to be interested in signing the Englishman amid his impressive start to life in La Liga with Getafe. However, Barca are reluctant to make an offer for the forward because, Sport reports, they fear a blowback from supporters over the charges of sexual assault and domestic violence that were dropped, just as United dealt with before they opted to loan him to Getafe. Barcelona are also not in a position financially to spend such a significant sum, with midfield reinforcements their current priority.

Barcelona's reluctance could leave Getafe with a clear path to signing him on a permanent basis at the end of the season. The Madrid club have already offered £40 million ($51m) for the 22-year-old, according to reports, and president Angel Torres said Getafe are "are on the right track" to sign him outright.

Greenwood, who came through United's system and made 129 appearances, has scored five goals and provided four assists in 15 matches across La Liga and the Copa del Rey since joining Getafe on a temporary deal in September.

Barca will likely continue to monitor the attacker over the course of the season before making a final decision on whether or not to sign him. Greenwood, for his part, will hope to continue his form in the Spanish top flight.