Manchester United have sent an ultimatum to Antony amid his reluctance to choose an alternative club to Real Betis this summer, according to ABC Sevilla (page 48).
The Brazil international spent the second half of last season on loan with Betis. He fared impressively for the Spanish side, scoring nine goals and providing five assists from 26 games.
Antony is eager to rejoin the La Liga outfit next season, but the Andalusian outfit can only afford a loan deal. They could include a buy option, but that is also not guaranteed.
United are unhappy with Antony’s attitude at the moment and have now presented an ultimatum.
They have told the winger to accept one of the offers from Turkey or Saudi Arabia, which are worth €30-40 million, before the start of the new Premier League season this week.
Otherwise, he could be sitting ‘in the stands until January’ which would scupper his World Cup dream.
In case of a loan exit, United want Antony to commit to a new contract beyond the summer of 2027.
Man Utd make ruthless decision on Antony’s future
Antony fell out of favour under former manager Erik ten Hag, and his situation did not change under Ruben Amorim despite a new formation and a different playing style.
The 25-year-old was loaned out to Betis at the turn of the year. He performed above expectations at the La Liga outfit with 14 goal contributions. He scored some exceptional goals.
His performances have captured the attention of clubs in Turkey and Saudi. Al-Nassr were recently credited with an interest despite securing a deal for Joao Felix from Chelsea.
This is a clear indication that Antony has plenty of suitors. United have the chance to secure a reasonable fee for the progress he has made, but the winger is blocking the possibility.
The Red Devils have their sights on landing Brighton & Hove Albion midfielder Carlos Baleba and may have to pay a high initial amount to convince the Seagulls into a deal.
Al-Nassr, for example, could guarantee United with the entire fee for Antony upfront, which would obviously boost their prospects of landing Baleba from the Seagulls.
United are right to be ruthless with the former Ajax man. Antony needs to move on, or he could be rotting in the stands, which would hamper his chances of making the World Cup.
Betis are playing the waiting game to secure a late loan for Antony, but United don’t have time for this and need a club prepared to pay a sizeable fee for the Brazilian attacker.
Stats from Transfermarkt.com