Manchester United winger Antony has had a poor season so far and questions are being asked about his future at the club.
If there is a case to erode the total power Erik ten Hag has on transfers, and give it to Ineos’ incoming team of experts, then the transfer of Antony is all the evidence required.
Manchester United spent more than £80 million to sign Antony from Ajax in 2022, for a player The Athletic claimed the club had valued at just £25 million a year earlier.
The high price tag would not have been so much of an issue if he were playing well. But this season has been terrible. He has no goals and no assists, and has not made any kind of positive impact at all.
READ: Confirmed Manchester United transfer deals for January 2024, ins, outs, loan moves
Antony exit rumours
A report emerged via The Evening Standard on Monday which claimed Manchester United will offer Antony to the Saudi Pro League to try and recoup some cash.
It is suggested United would be happy to land £50 million for Antony, plus a further £50 million for Jadon Sancho, currently on loan at Borussia Dortmund.
Fabrizio Romano insists Manchester United are not actively looking to get rid of the winger.
He told The United Stand: “I don’t think this is the case. It could be an intermediary trying to find solution and go to Manchester United and try to offer the player the possibility. Maybe someone is working that side from Saudi, to try to bring a club to the table.”
He added that the situation could be revisited in the summer, stating, “‘there are some big decisions to make”, but that for January, no movement is expected.
Next few months could be decisive for Antony future
Manager Erik ten Hag spoke at a press conference earlier this month to suggest Antony’s poor form has been related to troubles in his personal life.
He told Sky Sports: “I think it’s very simple. I think his off-field issues stop him playing. I think first year was OK and I think in the pre-season he was very OK. First four games were very good.”
Antony’s form has to pick up between now and the end of the season, otherwise it will make total sense to try and move him on.
It wouldn’t be a surprise if United were quietly putting feelers out now to try and establish what interest there may be ahead of the summer.
Getting rid of the under-performing winger would be a decisive move from Ineos, and also send a warning to the current players that under-performance will not be tolerated.
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