Sell-on clause: Manchester United secured a massive sell-on clause that entitles them to a major portion of any future transfer fee, which Greenwood’s current club, Marseille, might receive from a sale. While initial reports varied, the clause – agreed when Greenwood joined Marseille in 2024 – is widely understood to be between 40-50 per cent.
Performance-related adjustments: The agreement includes “flexible” terms that allow the sell-on percentage to change based on specific milestones. For example, Marseille are understood to have been able to buy back a portion of United’s stake. reducing the percentage, from 50 per cent to 40 per cent, after achieving Champions League qualification.
Marseille’s initial fee: The sell-on clause was a vital part of the original negotiations to bridge the gap between United’s valuation and Marseille’s budget. United accepted a lower upfront fee of approximately £26.7million specifically because they knew they would retain half of the player’s future value.
Total revenue vs. profit: While many standard football clauses only pay out a percentage of the profit, some are structured on the total sale value, and reports vary on which applies to this deal. Even if it’s a profit-related deal, as reported by The Telegraph, a £50m sale would see United bring in 40 per cent of the £23.3m profit – equivalent to £9.32m.
Financial Fair Play impact: Any money received from this clause counts as “pure profit” on United’s balance sheet because Greenwood was an academy graduate. This provides a massive boost to the club’s Profit and Sustainability Regulations (PSR) standing, helping them comply with rules when bringing in future signings.
Buy-Back option: In addition to the sell-on fee, Manchester United inserted a standard buy-back clause into the contract, according to The Telegraph. While United are not expected to exercise the clause, it gives the club the first right of refusal or a set price should they want him to return to Old Trafford rather than leaving Marseille for another club.
Getafe to take a cut: A portion of the money United receives from a future sale may be owed to the Spanish club Getafe, according to The Athletic. Due to a clause in Greenwood’s previous loan deal, Getafe is reportedly entitled to 20 per cent of any proceeds that United earn from his eventual permanent departure from Marseille.
Greenwood’s market value: Greenwood’s strong performances in France have led to rumours of bids exceeding £60m from other major clubs, with The Mail reporting on interest from Barcelona. If a sale at that price occurs, United would stand to receive a windfall of roughly £10.66m (40 per cent of Marseille’s £33.3m profit, minus a 20 per cent cut of United’s share for Getafe).
