Greenwood revenge: Manchester United planning raid on Marseille for Darryl Bakola | OneFootball

Manchester United’s youth product Mason Greenwood has become a talismanic presence at Olympique de Marseille.

However, in the summer of 2024, Greenwood was seemingly treated like a hot potato due to his off-field baggage. United were keen to offload him, but not many clubs showed an interest in him.

Eventually, Marseille decided to place their trust in his talent, securing his signature for £26.6m.

While it is not the same scenario, United are also considering taking a gamble on Marseille’s academy graduate. 

Who is Marseille sensation Darryl Bakola?

Darryl Bakola has broken into the first team at Marseille, having made seven Ligue 1 appearances so far this campaign.

In November, the 18-year-old marked his Champions League debut against Newcastle United with an assist. 

A modern attacking midfielder, Bakola possesses outstanding first touch and close control. Without the ball, he has the bit between his teeth.

According to Defensa Central, Real Madrid are monitoring the France U20 international.

Los Blancos swiftly snapped up Raphael Varane from Lens after his breakthrough season in 2011. It is suggested that they intend to repeat the trick with Bakola before his stock rises further.

Manchester United enter race to sign Bakola

Bakola, whose current market value is around €4 million, will enter the final year of his contract at Stade Vélodrome next summer.

However, Real fear that his valuation could skyrocket due to growing interest from top clubs.

The Spanish outlet claim United have expressed their interest in Bakola. The likes of Chelsea and Arsenal are also circling. 

Under INEOS, the Premier League giants have aggressively targeted highly-rated prospects who can develop into superstars. Bakola fits that brief perfectly.

In 2024, United hijacked Real Madrid’s move for French defender Leny Yoro. Now, they have set their sights on another emerging Ligue 1 star, much to Real’s frustration.

Featured image Juan Manuel Serrano Arce via Getty Images

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