Stephen Dunmoye
The Brazilian international is set to become the second player to follow Ten Hag from Ajax to Old Trafford, following the £55m move for defender Lisandro Martinez after a breakthrough in negotiations between the Red Devils and Ajax on Sunday night.
Manchester United’s mega-money move for Ajax star Antony is on the verge of completion and his agent has revealed as much via his Instagram stories.
Junior Pedroso, the player’s representative, took to social media to write ‘Here we go’ followed by a plane emoji while the actual text was written in a red and white font. Many excited fans have obviously interpreted that as Antony making the trip to Manchester where he is expected to have his medical.
Erik ten Hag was desperate to enjoy a reunion with the winger, whom he worked so closely with during their shared time at the Amsterdam Arena. Despite Antony’s obvious talent and potential, eyebrows have been raised at the sheer amount the Red Devils are willing to fork out to get this transfer over the line. Including add-ons, United are going to spend €100million (£85m) on the skilful wide-forward.
United made a number of bids for the 22-year-old – most of which were swiftly rejected. In turn, given his own desire to leave, this frustrated Antony to the point where he went public with his wish to be allowed an exit from the Dutch champions.
“During the window months, meetings concluded including a proposal from Ajax for a contract renewal. I made it clear once again I want to leave the club,”
“Today in a meeting with the board I expressed my interest in leaving the club, this time with a considerable offer on the table. Others have already arrived but Ajax always refuses with the argument it only has five days to replace me.”
“I’m not asking (for Ajax) to release me, I am asking Ajax to sell me for the highest bid received for a player who plays in the Eredivisie.” Antony said
Antony’s arrival would mark the fifth new signing of the summer. Young Netherlands international Tyrell Malacia was the first through the door, swiftly followed by ex-Tottenham hero Christian Eriksen. Martinez was next up before United parted ways with another £60m to secure the signature of five-time Champions League winner and ex-Real Madrid star, Casemiro.
With Antony coming in as the most expensive of the lot by some distance, expectations are high.
