Manchester United could suddenly experience change in fortunes of their shambolic transfer activity as one of their main targets Antony has confessed that he could leave Ajax. The winger has been linked with a move to Old Trafford since the start of the window, only for Ajax to refuse to put him on sale. However, a turn in events could now see Antony switch sides.
United manager Erik ten Hag has been yearning for attacking reinforcements since arriving at the club, but hasn’t got any. Moreover, their disastrous start to the season, losing the first two games has further piled pressure on Ten Hag. This had had adverse effect on their transfer business, with their top priority targets rejecting a move. However, after Casemiro, Antony could follow in at Old Trafford.
Antony skips Ajax training as he talks about a potential transfer
Erik ten Hag is evidently plotting a summer of reunion at Manchester United since taking over the job. He signed Lisandro Martinez from his former side Ajax in a deal worth £50 million, and now wants Antony. The winger was Ten Hag’s signing for Ajax back in 2020 from Brazilian side Sau Paulo.
Antony flourished under Ten Hag in just his two seasons under the manager, netting 22 goals and collecting 20 assists in just 79 appearances. As evident, the 22-year-old has the ability to both create as well as score. He racked up 8 goals and 4 assists in 23 Eredivisie games last season alongside 3.4 shots, 1.6 chances created an 1.8 dribbles per game.
As United are pushing to sign him, Ajax too have been firm on their stance that Antony is not for sale. However, he recently dropped a massive hint that he wants out of the club and reunite with Ten Hag in England. The Brazilian missed Ajax training after United reportedly bid £68 million for him the other day. While the Dutch side has rejected the offer, Antony now seems to have taken the matters into his own hands.
The winger opened about his uncertain future, indicating that his desire to join the Red Devils. Talking to De Telegraaf, he said: “No. To be honest, I can’t [guarantee]. I can say that I want to make the right decision together with my family, agents and Ajax. God decides my future in the end.”
But the winger refuses to carry out some antics in order to fulfil his dream of playing at Old Trafford. Antony adds he is content if he remains an Ajax player post the transfer window given he gets to continue to feature in the Champions League. United on the other hand, will be competing in the second tier Europa League after finishing sixth last season.
He added, “No, no, no! I am very happy at Ajax. I have a contract until 2025 and will give everything for this beautiful club with every second. I wear this shirt with pride. We are playing in the Champions League. I enjoy being here”.
Meanwhile, United have just struck an agreement to sign Real Madrid’s star midfielder Casemiro for package of £70 million, which includes £60 million guaranteed and add-ons worth £10 million. They will now focus on launching another, improved bid for Antony has the winger too now anticipates a transfer.