Real Betis are keen to sign Manchester United flop Antony this summer, but are unable to meet the club's asking price in a permanent deal.
Betis' Antony walks off the podium after they lost the Europa Conference League final
Manchester United will be looking to sell Antony this summer after his successful loan spell at Real Betis
(Image: AP)
Manchester United are eager for Antony to depart the club this summer with Real Betis keen to make his loan move permanent but financial constraints pose a significant challenge.
Following Wednesday night's UEFA Conference League final defeat to Chelsea, the La Liga side reportedly cannot meet United's £40million asking price. Antony's hefty weekly wage of £200,000 could also prove problematic, despite the Brazilian's enjoying his time in Seville.
A report in Marca suggests that Betis may consider part-ownership of Antony in an unusual move that would see United retain some interest. Discussions between the clubs are set to take place over the next few days to explore potential agreements.
A more plausible scenario might be for Betis to agree another loan for Antony while covering a substantial portion of his wages. Antony, who cost United £86m, has netted nine goals in 26 matches since joining Betis midway through the season.
Despite struggling against Chelsea, he appears to have found a new lease of life since leaving Old Trafford and United are bracing themselves for a busy start to the transfer window.
A £62.5m deal for Wolves forward Matheus Cunha is on the cards after terms were agreed last week, while captain Bruno Fernandes has been granted an extension for a potential move to Al Hilal.
The Saudi club, Al Hilal, are prepared to make the Portuguese star one of the world's highest-paid players, but they are keen for him to join before next month's Club World Cup. An initial deadline was set for last Thursday, but recent reports suggest he has until late next week to decide.
A lucrative three-year deal worth up to £200m in salary is reportedly on the table from Al Hilal, who also anticipate paying a fee in the region of £100m for Fernandes. The 30-year-old is seriously considering the offer.
Every player in United's squad is up for grabs at the right price as the club grapples with the financial fallout of their disappointing season and the prospect of no European football next term. Ruben Amorim's team needs a significant revamp to fit his 3-4-2-1 system.
However, it's understood that several sales will be necessary to finance new signings. Marcus Rashford and Alejandro Garnacho are among those expected to leave this summer.
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