Atletico Madrid want Manchester United star Antony during the summer transfer window after his incredible loan spell at Real Betis. Antony has played a pivotal role for Betis since joining in the January transfer window, putting behind his United struggles.
The 25-year-old has helped the Spanish club reach the UEFA Conference League final, where they will play Chelsea next Thursday. United manager Ruben Amorim let Antony depart the club after taking over from Erik ten Hag during the current season.
Man United have endured a horrible season, currently 16th in the Premier League and recently lost the Europa League final. Tottenham Hotspur beat the Red Devils 1-0 and took their chance to qualify for the next season’s Champions League competition.
Without the Champions League, United are facing more financial scrutiny and need to sell players before they can back Amorim. The current United squad have failed to adjust to Amorim’s tactical approach, and he needs a squad overhaul this summer.
According to The Independent, Atletico want Antony from United after monitoring his impressive loan spell at Betis since last January. United signed Antony for £86m in the summer of 2022, but the Brazil international failed to justify the huge valuation.
The 25-year-old has made 25 appearances for Betis in all competitions this season, scoring nine goals and providing five assists. United would hope that Atletico’s interest would help them secure a good deal for a player whose market value is now £16.79m (€20), according to Transfermarkt.
As United sell players before they can buy the ones that fit Amorim’s system, time could play a big role. The Red Devils have a daunting task of raising the transfer budget by selling their surplus and spending that money.
They cannot afford to play a waiting game for every player who is surplus to the requirements at the club. As the transfer window continues, buying players for a reasonable price will get harder, raising the potential for United to make similar mistakes of the past.
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