Roma’s missed chance: why the Giallorossi couldn’t clinch Greenwood

Roma entered the summer transfer market needing to bolster their attack after a season of mixed results, targeting English forward Mason Greenwood as a solution. The Giallorossi pursued the Englishman for weeks, yet never submitted a formal offer, a fact confirmed by Olympique Marseille director Gregory Lorenzi.

According to reports, Roma prepared a proposal worth over €42 million plus add‑ons for Greenwood, reflecting their desire to reinforce attacking options. The club’s strategy shift aimed to replace departing stars and add depth to the front line.

The only formal bid came from Turkish side Fenerbahce, which could offer a reported €10 million per season thanks to Turkiye’s tax regime. Those regulations allow a higher net wage than in Italy, and the salary package proved decisive in Greenwood’s decision to join the Turkish club.

Lorenzi highlighted the player’s image as a major obstacle, saying, “You all know the complexity of the Greenwood situation, given the player’s image.” He referred to the domestic‑violence allegations that forced Greenwood out of Manchester United and sparked a Roma fan petition urging the club not to sign him.

Rumours of a bidding war involving Atletico Madrid and clubs from the Saudi Pro League swirled throughout the summer. Despite those whispers, Lorenzi confirmed that only Fenerbahce submitted a concrete offer, making Roma’s lack of a final bid surprising to many observers.

When asked about the transfer fee, Lorenzi added, “Clubs didn’t approach us, so the idea of selling for €80‑100 m… the market decided the player wasn’t worth that much.” He noted that the market perception limited the number of interested parties and kept the fee below the €42 million figure initially discussed.

Marseille supporters questioned why Greenwood’s transfer cost only €39 million plus bonuses, especially after a “splendid record in France.” They also pointed out that 40 percent of the profit from the deal was owed to Manchester United, adding another layer to the financial discussion.

In the end, Greenwood joined Fenerbahce, with Lorenzi stating, “So we felt the best solution for all concerned was Fenerbahce, in the circumstances.” The image issue and market dynamics remain obstacles for any future move back to a major European league.

MADRID, SPAIN – SEPTEMBER 16: Mason Greenwood of Olymquique de Marseille gestures during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD1 match between Real Madrid C.F. and Olympique de Marseille at Estadio Santiago Bernabeu on September 16, 2025 in Madrid, Spain. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)