Man Utd set date for Mason Greenwood investigation to end as new season approaches

 Manchester United have set a deadline for their investigation into the future of Mason Greenwood to end - 18 months since he was suspended by the club

Manchester United will make a decision over the future of Mason Greenwood before the new Premier League season gets under way.

United's internal investigation will conclude before Erik ten Hag's sides play their opening fixture on August 14. It comes 18 months after he was initially suspended by the club.

The 21-year-old was suspended in January of 2022 after being charged with attempted rape, engaging in controlling and coercive behaviour and assault.

Police said in a statement in February that Greenwood "no longer faces criminal proceedings" and the Crown Prosecution Service dropped the case.

United's follow-up statement earlier this year, said: "Manchester United notes the decision of the Crown Prosecution Service that all charges against Mason Greenwood have been dropped. The club will now conduct its own process before determining next steps.

"We will not make any further comment until that process is complete."

A total of 155 days has passed since that statement and the club have publicly provided no further update. United chiefs are keen not to overshadow the progress of the team.

The Mirror report that United chief executive Richard Arnold has led discussions and has sought opinions from football director John Murtough, owners the Glazer family and manager Ten Hag.

Stakeholders, including commercial partners have also been contacted by the club, but it is not known whether the representatives of Greenwood have been asked to co-operate.

Ten Hag is understood to have become frustrated at the amount of time taken to reach a conclusion, but United will continue actively pursing a new striker whatever decision is taken.

One potential option could be to send Greenwood out on loan, with Jose Mourinho's Roma linked with a temporary switch last month.

Opinions at United are said to be divided, with a backlash expected for any decision the club chooses to take.

The club is also aware that their global reputation is on the line, which has led to the prolonged process.