Lazio was pushing to finalize the transfer of Mason Greenwood from Manchester United this past Summer Transfer Window. The Serie A club was determined to secure Greenwood’s signature before they headed to their Pre-Season Retreat in Auronzo di Cadore; however, this deal never transpired for various reasons.
Life at Getafe
Mason Greenwood performed remarkably during his season at Getafe, scoring 10 goals and providing six assists. Despite his success, Manchester United clarified that the striker had no future at Old Trafford, placing a €50 million (£42 million/$35 million) price tag on him.
Lazio’s initial bid of around €25 million (£21 million/$27 million) fell short of this valuation, necessitating an increased offer to meet United’s demands. Besides the Biancocelesti, French club Marseille had also shown interest in Greenwood, adding pressure on the Italian side to expedite the transfer process. The Biancocelesti hoped Greenwood would have been amenable to a move to Italy, improving their attacking options for the upcoming season.
Lazio’s Transfer Window Activity
Lazio was proactive in the transfer market, securing deals for wingers Tijjani Noslin from Hellas Verona and Loum Tchaouna from Salernitana. Additionally, the club completed the transfers of midfielders Fisayo Dele-Bashiru from Hatayspor and Gaetano Castrovilli (Free Agent), defenders Nuno Tavares from Arsenal and Samuel Gigot from Marseille, and last but not least, Boulaye Dia to reinforce their striking options. However, signing the Senegalese attacker was not always the plan. The priority was signing Greenwood, as confirmed by Club President Claudio Lotito:
I have offered €25 million plus add-ons, in addition to a 50% sell-on clause to Manchester United for Mason Greenwood.
However, when Marseille and Manager Roberto De Zerbi came calling with a five-year deal worth €30 million plus a 50% future sell-on clause, he ultimately joined the Ligue 1 side, thus changing Lazio’s mercato strategy.
How Mason Greenwood Could Have Impacted Lazio
Mason Greenwood’s transfer to Lazio would have promised to significantly enhance the club’s attacking capabilities. He is a versatile player who can play as a center-forward and a winger, and his agility, dribbling skills, and finishing under pressure would have made him a formidable addition to Marco Baroni’s tactical setup.
With Felipe Anderson’s departure, Greenwood could have seamlessly filled the void on the right flank, bringing creativity, pace, and a proven goal-scoring ability that Lazio desperately wanted; during his loan spell at Getafe, Greenwood impressed with 10 goals and six assists. His track record at Manchester United further underscored his potential impact. In 129 appearances for the Red Devils, he scored 35 goals and provided 12 assists, gaining valuable experience in the Premier League and European competitions.
In addition to being young, his growth potential would have aligned perfectly with Lazio’s strategic objectives, which aim to build a team capable of competing at the highest levels in Serie A and beyond. However, it was not meant to be and he ultimately joined Marseille in Ligue 1.
Betting fans are optimistic about Greenwood’s impact on their fortunes. His arrival has already improved Marseille’s odds for next season, making them a more attractive option for bettors. Many are utilizing welcome bonuses by using Caesars Sportsbook promotional codes to maximize their betting potential.
Lazio Predictions for Next Season
Lazio’s upcoming season holds significant promise. Betting markets have already begun to notice, with American odds reflecting an optimistic outlook for Lazio’s performance in Serie A.
Currently, Lazio is considered a strong contender for a top-four finish, with odds around +300. The optimism is fueled by their approach in the transfer market; despite not securing Mason Greenwood, they did manage to reinforce the team with young talents like Tijjani Noslin, Fisayo Dele-Bashiru, and Loum Tchaouna, in addition to experienced players like Samuel Gigot, Gaetano Castrovilli, and Boulaye DIa.
With Marco Baroni’s tactical acumen and the bolstering of their squad, Lazio is expected to compete fiercely for European qualification. If the new signings are able to adapt quickly and mesh well, the impact could be a game-changer.
