Manchester United loanee Mason Greenwood chooses ex-Real Madrid and Barcelona star as idol amid transfer rumors
Barcelona and Real Madrid are prominent on the mind of Manchester United loanee Mason Greenwood as he spends time on loan in Spain with Getafe. The English forward has revealed that a player who has featured for both Spanish giants was his childhood idol in football.
Manchester United took the decision to send Greenwood to Spain after his run-in with law enforcement in England. The England international joined Getafe on a season-long loan and has enjoyed an impressive spell so far, playing a vital role for the side.
Greenwood has kept to himself for much of the season, especially in terms of media engagement, but he spoke with the club's media. He named Brazilian icon Ronaldo Nazario as his football idol growing up when asked a series of questions about his lifestyle.
Ronaldo Nazario featured for both Barcelona and Real Madrid in his storied career and was one of the best in the world in his time. He played 177 times for Real Madrid, scoring 103 goals and providing 35 assists.
In his brief spell at Barcelona, Ronaldo played 49 times for the club, scoring 47 goals and providing 13 assists. The legendary Brazilian striker managed to win the Ballon d'Or once, at the age of 21, and is the youngest-ever recipient of the award.
Greenwood was born at a time when the powers of the striker were beginning to wane due to injuries. He grew up watching the iconic striker, and his admiration for the Brazilian is understandable.
The English forward has been impactful this season for Getafe, scoring three times and providing four assists in 15 appearances. He was named as Getafe's Player of the Month in December for the first time since his arrival.
Barcelona, Real Madrid linked with Greenwood move
Mason Greenwood's performance this season has caught the eyes of many top sides. Barcelona and Real Madrid are among the clubs that have been linked with a permanent move for the 22-year-old.
Manchester United are prepared to let Greenwood leave permanently in the summer, and they have begun to receive inquiries. Atletico Madrid, as well as their main rivals, want the forward to join them ahead of 2024-25.
Barcelona do not have a great deal of financial muscle to sign the young forward and may not proceed with a deal. Real Madrid, on the other hand, can afford to sign him and could do so in the summer.