A surprise club has reportedly approached Manchester United at least two times in recent days to enquire about the possibility of signing Antony.
Still no clarity on Antony’s future
Antony spent the second half of last season out on loan at Real Betis, where he scored an impressive nine goals and registered an additional five assists in 26 appearances across all competitions.
Despite his improved fortunes, Antony still doesn’t have a future at United. The forward is part of the ‘bomb squad’, which refers to a group of five players – including Marcus Rashford (who has since joined Barcelona on loan), Alejandro Garnacho, Jadon Sancho and Tyrell Malacia – who were exiled from the first team and left out of Ruben Amorim’s pre-season plans.
Antony has not been short of suitors, but the Brazilian is believed to favour a return to Betis.
The Spanish outfit are also keen on having him back but they have so far been unwilling to sanction a permanent swoop. Betis want another loan deal with an option to buy Antony, while United remain adamant that only a permanent sale will do.
A breakthrough doesn’t seem close and as the conclusion of the summer window approaches, Antony may ultimately be forced to consider alternative transfer destinations.
Now, Portuguese journalist Bruno Andrade has revealed that Benfica have expressed a formal interest in the Brazilian.
Benfica make contact with United for Antony
Andrade claims, “Benfica has made two specific approaches to Manchester United in recent days to discuss a possible negotiation for Antony, according to Maisfutebol.”
“Initially, the Reds [Benfica] announced their willingness to move forward with a loan, while the English club still prioritises a permanent transfer of the Brazilian international.”
“Negotiations, however, continue behind the scenes.”
It’s understood that after their initial approach, Benfica realised that the financial demands of a deal for Antony may be beyond their reach.
Due to this, the Liga Portugal giants are also lining up moves for alternative targets, even as they try to find a compromise that could potentially allow them to sign Antony.
Andrade notes that United want €50m for the 25-year-old, who is also being chased by RB Leipzig, Bayer Leverkusen and Brighton and Hove Albion.
Feature image Shaun Botterill via Getty Images
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Derick Kinoti
Derick Kinoti is a football writer at The Peoples Person who has covered Manchester United and the game extensively for many years. He is a keen analyst with expertise in SEO and journalism standards. Derick is convinced Wayne Rooney is the true GOAT and won’t hear otherwise!
