Greenwood to replace Aubameyang at Marseille

Manchester United forward Mason Greenwood is set to sign for Ligue 1 side Marseille for a reported fee of €30 million, filling the void left by veteran striker Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, AFP reports.

The potential arrival of Greenwood, 22, has sparked controversy in Marseille due to charges of rape and assault against him being dropped in February 2023. Marseille mayor Benoit Payan has been vocal in expressing concerns over Greenwood joining the club.

Greenwood had been suspended by Manchester United since January 2022 following the allegations, but prosecutors dropped the charges last year after key witnesses withdrew and new evidence emerged.

Last season, Greenwood played on loan at Spanish club Getafe, where he scored 10 goals in 36 appearances.

Greenwood was once considered a rising star at Manchester United, scoring 35 goals in 129 senior appearances after progressing through the Old Trafford youth system.

Meanwhile, Aubameyang, 35, is set to join Saudi club Al-Qadsiah, teaming up with Nacho, the former Real Madrid captain and recent Euro 24 winner with Spain. Al-Qadsiah welcomed Aubameyang with the announcement, “Protect your nets, the black panther is here,” referring to his nickname from his time at Borussia Dortmund and Arsenal.

Marseille praised Aubameyang, noting his impressive performance last season. He scored 30 goals in all competitions after arriving from Chelsea, but despite his efforts, Marseille finished only eighth in Ligue 1.