Real Betis are facing a tense tug-of-war in their bid to sign Manchester United winger Antony, as negotiations stall over a deal that would fit both the club’s finances and the player’s ambitions. The Brazilian, who moved to United from Ajax in 2022 for a reported £86 million, is reportedly keen on a return to La Liga, where he previously shone, but progress has been slow and uncertain.
Antony’s future at Old Trafford is under question as manager Ruben Amorim appears to be reshaping his squad for the coming season. The winger is said to be out of Amorim’s long-term plans, leaving Antony racing against the clock to secure a move away from United. His agent has also left the door open to a move to Saudi Arabia if a European option does not materialize, adding another layer of complexity to the transfer.
For Betis, the appeal of Antony is clear: his speed, dribbling, and familiarity with Spain’s top flight would be a valuable asset. However, the club is reportedly operating under financial constraints, making a deal difficult. Any agreement is likely to hinge on a loan with an option to buy or a reduced transfer fee, with time running short in the summer window.
The Saudi Pro League remains a potential fallback, offering a lucrative package that could entice United to accept a deal even if it doesn’t align with Antony’s preferred destination. Still, the winger seems to prefer returning to Spain, where he believes he can revive his form at a familiar club.
From a United perspective, the situation is a reminder of the club’s ongoing transfer challenges. Antony’s high wages and the price tag United paid in 2022 complicate a sale, and a loan deal or a cut-price sale could reflect broader questions about the club’s recruitment strategy. For Betis, a successful move would boost their attack with a player who already understands La Liga, while United would gain financial relief and squad space if a deal is completed, albeit potentially at a value that reflects the current market.
In the wider context, Antony’s pursuit highlights how turbulent, price-sensitive the modern transfer market can be, especially for players seeking a return to familiar surroundings while clubs balance sport and finance. The next steps will hinge on how quickly Betis can navigate their budget constraints, whether United are willing to part with a player who still has potential, and which destination Antony views as his best long-term fit.
Summary: Betis are pursuing Antony amid financial hurdles and a looming deadline, with a possible loan route or reduced fee on the table. A return to Spain is Antony’s preferred path, but Saudi options remain a back-up. The outcome will depend on Betis’ willingness to stretch their budget and United’s readiness to move on.
Additional notes for publication:
– Consider highlighting the financial aspect of Betis’ constraints and how loan deals with options are commonly used in such scenarios.
– Include a brief note on how this transfer could affect Betis’ squad planning and midfield/wing options for the upcoming season.
– If possible, add context on Antony’s recent form and how a move to Betis might influence his resurgence in La Liga.