Manchester United are looking to sell talent currently to boost their budget for a new centre-forward who can strengthen the attack
Manchester United have been informed by Real Betis that they could abandon their pursuit of winger Antony this summer if the deal is not viable.
The Brazilian was quickly loaned to the La Liga club in the January transfer window as it became clear that he would not fit into Ruben Amorim’s system. In Seville, Antony rediscovered his best form and managed to inspire his team to the final of the Conference League.
Upon his return to Old Trafford, Antony was one of five players who informed the club that he wished to move in the summer transfer window. This instinctively alerted Real Betis to the prospect of re-signing the Brazilian and while Antony enjoyed his time in Spain, the finances involved could be a sticking point.
Currently, it appears that Real are the only side realistically interested in Antony which is a concern in of itself considering that United need to sell players in order to buy now. However, the La Liga club’s interest is not believed to be indefinite.
Speaking to Diario de Sevilla, Betis president Angel Haro updated them on a move for Antony and it is not exactly the news United will have wanted to hear. “From an economic standpoint, it has to fit within our parameters. A purchase depends on United’s price.
“A loan rather than a purchase is more feasible, given what Manchester wants to ask for. We’re assuming, and Betis is making efforts, that he can arrive, but if he doesn’t, I don’t want it to be seen as a failure.
“It’s difficult to bring in a player of this quality and such a high financial compensation.” Adding to this, their sporting director Manu Fajardo added: “Our responsibility is to be prepared, and we have alternatives in case Antony doesn’t arrive. We’re calm.”
All this comes as Marcus Rashford nears a loan move to Barcelona. In the meantime, Antony has returned to Manchester awaiting an update on his future having not been included in the pre-season tour of the USA.
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2025-07-23 13:30:00
