Manchester United have been desperately trying to sell members of the bomb squad this summer, but except Marcus Rashford, all of them remain at Carrington.
Even the Mancunian has departed on a loan deal, something INEOS are trying to avoid with the others. One player who has attracted significant interest is Antony.
The Brazilian enjoyed a fantastic loan spell with Real Betis in the second half of last season, netting nine times in just 26 games, just three short of the tally he had notched at United in almost three seasons.
Not only that but the 25-year-old also registered as many assists (five) as he had managed in his Old Trafford career.
Betis’ offers have fallen short
Naturally, the Spanish side have been eager to bring him back to the Villamarin Stadium, but have so far, failed to offer the €45 million being demanded by the Red Devils.
In fact, they have been proposing either loan deals or innovative financing options, both of which have not impressed United’s co-owners.
The ex-Ajax ace is keen to return to Betis, as he is guaranteed to be a starter for Manuel Pellegrini, thereby increasing his chances of making the Brazil squad for the World Cup.
With less than 10 days left for the window to close, United are hoping someone else can come in, and as per ESPN Brazil, Fenerbahce have emerged as a late option.
Fenerbahce ready to pay United’s asking price
In fact, Jose Mourinho’s club have even agreed to pay the full €45 million and are currently waiting for the Brazil international’s green light.
Antony has remained non-committal, as he prefers a return to Spain. Quite a few other clubs are also eyeing him, but are only offering a loan, hence why United have not entertained such proposals.
“Fenerbahçe has gone all out in the dispute for Antony and announced in the last few hours that they are willing to pay the amount requested by Manchester United: around 45 million euros, according to ESPN.
“The English have naturally shown considerable interest in moving forward with the talks, but for now, the Brazilian striker isn’t entirely convinced about heading to Turkish football.
No green light yet from Antony
“Even with a significant salary in Istanbul, and for this reason negotiations remain ongoing, the former São Paulo player still prefers to wait for other clubs. However, many interested parties continue to insist on a loan.
“At this moment, Manchester United, with whom the player has a contract until June 2027 , does not look favorably on a new loan transfer, as happened last season.
“The Spanish club, in fact, continues to be one of the most committed behind the scenes in trying to sign Antony—again on loan, if possible. The scenario also pleases the player who emerged in Cotia.”
It will be intriguing to see where he lands up eventually. Hopefully, United can get rid of him permanently and use the funds raised in trying to sign a new midfielder and goalkeeper.
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Ayantan Chowdhury
Ayantan has worked for 10 years in the Indian sports media industry, writing for the biggest newspapers and websites but his heart was always set on writing about his favourite club. Currently an editor at The Peoples Person. You can follow him on X: @ayantanc_25
