Manchester United managed to offload Antony to Real Betis after a fair bit of drama during the closing stages of the summer transfer window.
The Brazilian had made it clear that he only had eyes for the La Liga side, after turning down the likes of Bayern Munich and Saudi Pro League sides in the hopes of going back to the Villamarin Stadium.
Such a sentiment stemmed from the fact that he excelled on loan last season, netting nine times in just 26 games, three short of the goals he had tallied 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 United career.
Antony’s controversial sale to Betis
Given those numbers, the Red Devils were right to demand €40 million with the Spanish side exiting talks initially, hoping to build pressure on INEOS.
The ploy did work, as the ex-Ajax ace eventually moved for an initial €25 million while the 20-time English league champions also included a clause which entitles them to 50 per cent of the profit in case of a future sale.
The €25 million is low given the Old Trafford side spent €95 million to bring him to Manchester on former manager Erik ten Hag’s insistence.
But as per Fichajes, they could earn more with Antony’s contract with Betis including a release clause between €50 and €60 million.
Release clause details
“Manchester United agreed to part ways with Antony after months of tension with the player. The Brazilian winger couldn’t find his place at Old Trafford and wanted to return to a place where he felt important.
“With the signing now complete, it has come to light that Antony’s release clause is between €50 and €60 million . This amount is considered affordable for clubs with greater financial power.”
What this effectively means for United is should any team come in for the Brazil international in the subsequent windows, they could earn anywhere between €12.5 million to €17.5 million, not a bad after all.
Now, INEOS will be hoping Antony can actually show the same kind of form he displayed last season so that the club can earn more from his sale.
Feature image Fran Santiago via Getty Images
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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
