There have been some very disappointing signings in recent years at Manchester United but now possibly the worst might be set for an exit.
With a footballing structure which had repeatedly failed in place at Old Trafford until this past summer, there are countless examples of horrific transfer moves at Manchester United.
Jadon Sancho is one as he is on loan at Chelsea, while Casemiro is another which turned out to be a huge waste of money as United now frantically search for a buyer.
However, the worst of all and absolutely the worst stain on Erik ten Hag’s talent ID is Antony as he cost United £86m from Ajax in 2022 – the most expensive player Ten Hag has signed.
Ten Hag five most expensive signings
| # | Player | Fee |
| 1 | Antony | £86m |
| 2 | Casemiro | £70m |
| 3 | Rasmus Hojlund | £64m |
| 4 | Mason Mount | £55m |
| 5 | Leny Yoro | £52m |
Antony has had a frustrating two-year spell at Old Trafford to date – but it all looks likely to come to an end in 2025.
How much Ineos are now asking for to sell Antony
Antony’s struggles have continued this season and it now seems like a matter of time before he is gone – with the writing being on the wall since he lost Ten Hag’s backing late last season.
The issue however is not deciding to sell, but rather finding someone to buy him – with only Super Lig interest arriving.
In an effort to attract interested parties, according to the Daily Mail, United have now set an asking price for the Brazilian – one which would see a £46m loss for the Red Devils.
Having cost £86m, the price tag of £40m would be a 53% decrease in value and even then Ineos may count themselves fortunate to receive that fee as he is absolutely not worth it right now.
It is also explained that United may also be willing to agree on an initial loan move, with the view to Antony restoring his value somewhat.
On paper, this is a good move, but as seen with Sancho – it is hardly a sure thing and we could end up selling cheaply anyway.
Newcastle are one club linked with making a move for Antony, a move United would welcome.
Manchester United already have replacement and he cost £0
Ineos have the fortunate job of succeeding in such a terribly ran footballing structure which means they can learn from their mistakes – such as flogging £86m on an unproven Eredivisie winger.
Instead, Sir Jim Ratcliffe and his expert decision-makers will look to build superstars as opposed to attempting to buy them.
Luckily for United, there is a potentially great right-wing prospect in the academy by the name of Shea Lacey.
Lacey has the potential to be a world-beater and if he can remain injury-free, we’d back him to get there or at least very close to that level.
The best part is he is currently getting into some excellent form for the U18s upon his return from a lay-off, all just in time to be Antony’s replacement in 2025.
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