After a brilliant second half on loan at Real Betis, Antony was expected to have earned himself a move away from his Old Trafford struggles.
The suggestion was that he had caught the attention of major clubs, but he was favouring continuing at Betis.
Yet, less than two weeks into the new season, Antony has still not sealed a move away.
He remains in limbo over where he will be playing this term.
So, where is Antony likely to end up, given he is unlikely to feature for Man United?
Spanish outlet Cadena Ser have sought to unpack the Brazilian’s situation.
They say yes, The Green and Whites want to incorporate Antony into their team, with the player himself keen on the move.
However, there is an obstacle.
“United, the club that owns him, wants to sell and not give up and thus recover part of the 95 million euros they invested in 2022, when they bought him from Ajax,” reveals the Spanish publication.
“But Betis neither wants nor can make a large investment and is looking for more creative formulas.”
Interestingly, Los Verdiblancos, despite sweetening their proposals, have (according to the report) even tried to convince Manchester United with a bold claim:
“Antony has already appreciated in four months; in one more season, he could do it even more and get closer to that original price of 2022.”
It still has not convinced INEOS. There is a chance United will not budge.
They may only do business with La Liga side if Betis are willing to commit to a €40 million (£34 million) permanent transfer.
Impasse could jeopardise Antony’s departure.
Antony is thought to be now willing to look past his dream Real Betis switch to secure an exit from United.
Cadenaser, while throwing Juventus and Bayer Leverkusen into the mix, reveals:
“If there is a formal offer from a strong Champions League team, Antony could listen to that possibility, but until that offer arrives, time is in Betis’ favour.”
Saudi Pro League sides are also reportedly interested.
United would be betting that by holding firm on their stance regarding Antony’s sale, a serious buyer will step forward and snap up the Samba star, as Betis continue to dilly-dally.
Featured image Fran Santiago via Getty Images
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Daniel Onguko
Since Dan was introduced to Manchester United in 2008, he has lived and breathed the club. What started as being a fan evolved into writing about United, allowing him to feel part of their journey. Hopefully, his work might even help rekindle your love for the kings of Manchester.
