It’s been indicated that Manchester United have progressed in their discussions with Real Betis concerning Antony – though it pertains to only a segment of his rights.
The Brazilian player holds the position of the second-highest expenditure for the Red Devils, owing to his transfer from Ajax in 2022 for a sum of £86 million.
Accumulating 96 appearances and contributing to 17 goals, the introduction of Ruben Amorim as the head coach at Old Trafford suggested a potential conclusion for Antony’s involvement with the team.
Manchester United Presented With Distinct Proposal by Real Betis for Antony
Alongside figures such as Marcus Rashford, Jadon Sancho, and Tyrell Malacia, Antony was regarded as exceeding the requirements of the Portuguese manager, resulting in his loan to Real Betis during the latter part of the season.
There, he exhibited a notable transformation, accumulating nine goals and providing five assists across various competitions, prompting the club’s captain, Isco, to propose a fundraising initiative for his permanent acquisition.
Antony expresses a desire for the transfer – even proposing a reduction in salary to facilitate the agreement – and Betis wishes for his return, yet the financial aspects have posed a challenge, with the Red Devils establishing a £39 million valuation.
Nevertheless, according to information originating from Diario de Sevilla, Los Verdiblancos have presented a proposition of approximately €20 million for 50% of Antony’s entitlements, essentially designating them as a joint proprietor of the player.
This configuration is more conventional within Europe, but comparatively uncommon on British territory.
The arrangement would, in essence, ensure that United retains a 50% sell-on provision concerning Antony, should Betis undertake his sale in subsequent periods.
In the estimation of FourFourTwo, considering the mark Antony left on Betis during his brief loan period, it stands to reason that they constitute United’s optimal potential purchaser.
The structure of the agreement is unusual for English teams and is not perfect for the Red Devils as they make an effort to stabilize their monetary records after a period of significant investments, however they were not likely to emerge beneficially from an arrangement involving Antony after the large financial commitment to Ajax.
In such a situation, it could serve the best interests of the Red Devils to accept the available terms and alleviate the financial burden of the Brazilian’s salary, thereby concluding a segment of a problematic phase in the club’s acquisition strategy.
Antony’s value is €35 million, as indicated by Transfermarkt.