'It's easy to leave Marseille' - Mason Greenwood transfer update offered by Roberto De Zerbi as manager sends out warning

Greenwood’s first year at the Stade Velodrome couldn’t have been scripted better. Bagging 21 league goals, the former Manchester United man not only became a Ligue 1 sensation but also claimed a share of the coveted Golden Boot, along with Paris Saint-Germain striker Ousmane Dembele. 

Such a form has inevitably stirred up interest, with clubs in Spain and Saudi Arabia monitoring his situation closely. In Spain, memories are still fresh of his standout spell at Getafe, where he showcased the same sharp eye for goal and creativity that has now lit up Marseille’s attack.

Speaking to reporters ahead of the new season, De Zerbi underlined his desire to keep his core squad intact, name-checking Greenwood alongside key names like Leonardo Balerdi, Geronimo Rulli, Adrien Rabiot, and Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg. 

"I don't think they'll leave," he said. "Keeping Balerdi, Rulli, Rabiot Hojbjerg, Greenwood is important for OM and for them. It's easy to leave Marseille but difficult to find a similar place."

The prospect of losing Greenwood is one that Marseille’s hierarchy clearly dreads. A clause in the agreement that took Greenwood from Old Trafford to the south of France means United are entitled to 50 per cent of any transfer fee the Ligue 1 club might receive for him.

While De Zerbi’s comments are aimed at quelling speculation, the reality is that transfer windows have a habit of throwing up surprises. Greenwood’s market value has soared, and with elite clubs circling, Marseille may yet be forced into tough negotiations should a mega-money bid arrive. For now, all eyes turn to Friday evening when Marseille open their Ligue 1 campaign with a tricky away fixture against Rennes at Roazhon Park.