Fenerbahce have agreed to meet Manchester United's £39million asking price for Antony before the summer transfer deadline, according to reports. However, the Turkish club may have some work to do to convince the United outcast about a switch as he continues to wait for a Real Betis return.
Antony remains exiled from Ruben Amorim's squad alongside Alejandro Garnacho, Jadon Sancho and Tyrell Malacia, with the quartet failing to secure exits thus far. A resolution to their futures, as well as that of Ramus Hojlund, is expected soon, though, with the September 1 transfer deadline just over a week away.
Antony has been longing for a return to Betis after a successful loan spell last season, during which he registered nine goals and six assists in 26 matches.
But the La Liga club have not been able to meet United's financial demands, which has closed the door on a deal.
The Red Devils want to sell Antony rather than sanction another loan exit, and Fenerbahce are said to be ready to grant their wish.
According to ESPN Brazil, Fenerbahce have gone all out for the 25-year-old winger and have indicated that they are ready to pay £39m to bring him to Istanbul.
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It's claimed that United have given Fenerbahce encouragement to continue with talks, but Antony is colder on the transfer.
Even with a lucrative contract on the table, Antony prefers to wait for alternative options because he is not convinced about Turkey as his next destination.
However, other suitors are currently only showing loan interest, which United want to avoid amid their efforts to raise funds through sales.
The report adds that the Old Trafford giants have also received inquiries from Brighton and Hove Albion, Bayer Leverkusen and Benfica.
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Yet, they are holding out for a permanent agreement to recoup a chunk of the £86m they paid Ajax for Antony in 2022.
The Turkish transfer deadline does not arrive until September 12, over a week beyond the rest of Europe's, which could play in Fenerbahce's favour.
There is also Saudi Arabian interest in Antony, and the Saudi Pro League deadline is, too, later than in Europe.
The Brazilian could soon face an important decision if Betis continue to struggle to produce an offer deemed acceptable.