Mason Greenwood ‘almost left Man Utd’ as his career hangs in the balance after rape case against him was dropped

He raised the prospect of moving to Manchester City to United staff during tense moments in training.

When Manchester City directly approached him, Greenwood turned them down.

He also rejected an approach from Juventus before signing his first professional contract.

Greenwood hasn't played professionally since January 2022 when the Red Devils beat West Ham at Old Trafford.

He was arrested after a woman made allegations against him.

He was charged with attempted rape, assault and controlling and coercive behaviour.

Those charges were dropped last month, with the Crown Prosecution Service blaming the withdrawal of key witnesses and discovery of new material.

Greenwood released a statement after the decision, which read: "I am relieved that this matter is now over and I would like to thank my family, loved ones and friends for their support. There will be no further comment."

It comes after Greenwood recently learned his partner is pregnant with his first child.

The £75,000-a-week Manchester United striker is expecting his first child with the university student this summer.

It is understood Greenwood could face a TV interview as part of a "phased approach" to his comeback.

And he has held face-to-face meetings with Man Utd bosses since the charges against him were dropped.

Meanwhile, a top sports lawyer said Greenwood may have lost "millions" after being dropped by major sponsors .

A PR expert added that any club taking him on, should United let him go, would take on a huge financial risk.

Despite this, a Champions League team have made "enquiries" over a possible transfer, while Greenwood himself was reported to be eyeing a move abroad to restart his career if he's dropped by his current club.