Boost for Man Utd as 5 clubs now want £40m star - report
Manchester United are likely to make multiple signings over the coming weeks.
The Red Devils had a dismal season in the Premier League last term. They finished 15th in the table.
The club struggled in the final third, scoring only 44 goals and need a significant attacking upgrade.
United have already signed Matheus Cunha, but they are likely to focus on more attacking additions.
For this to happen, the hierarchy may need to recoup extra funds from player sales.
AS today claim that Antony is keen on returning to Real Betis after his short-term loan this year.
The La Liga outfit are willing to sign him on loan with an obligation to buy ’50 percent’ of his rights.
United will therefore have a 50 percent sell-on clause for the future.
However, Diario de Sevilla report that the Red Devils are not interested in a loan deal and prefer to recoup part of the transfer fee invested in the Brazil international.
There are five teams keen on signing Antony permanently, with two of those from Spain.
United must sanction Antony’s permanent exit
Antony was loaned out to Betis at the turn of the year after failing to impress under manager Ruben Amorim.
The former Ajax man had a good stint at Betis, registering nine goals and five assists from 26 games in all competitions.
The 25-year-old has opened the door for a reunion, but United should not entertain Betis’ proposal in our opinion.
Betis want to sign Antony for a cut-price deal next summer, with United retaining a 50 percent sell-on clause.
However, there is no guarantee that the Brazilian will secure a big-money move from Betis in a few years’ time.
United should instead look to capitalise on Antony’s recent form and sanction his permanent exit.
Diario de Sevilla don’t mention any suitors, but it has been reported that Atletico Madrid could be interested.
The Red Devils could secure as much as £40 million from Diego Simeone’s side.
On the contrary, Betis may not pay more than £20m. They have not spent more than £24m on a player since 1998.
United must hold out for the best possible solution. They must part ways with Antony for a reasonable transfer fee.
Stats from Transfermarkt.com
Article written by Sri Aswin .