Manchester United Handed Massive Antony Transfer Boost After Unexpected Development
Manchester United may finally be seeing light at the end of a frustrating tunnel regarding the future of Antony, as an unexpected development has handed the club a significant transfer boost. The Brazilian winger, signed for a staggering £85 million from Ajax in 2022, has failed to justify his price tag, and now United appear closer than ever to offloading him—with new interest emerging that could spark a breakthrough in the transfer saga.
According to sources close to the club and reports circulating in the European media, a Saudi Pro League club has officially registered interest in signing Antony, offering Manchester United a potential escape route for a player who has struggled for consistency and form since arriving at Old Trafford. What makes this development even more impactful is that the interested club is reportedly willing to match a large portion of United’s valuation, providing hope that a deal could be struck sooner rather than later.
—
A Transfer That Never Took Off
When Manchester United secured Antony from Ajax in the summer of 2022, it was seen as a marquee signing. Reuniting with former Ajax boss Erik ten Hag, the Brazilian was expected to bring flair, pace, and a cutting edge to United’s right wing. However, his time in Manchester has been underwhelming.
Despite an exciting debut goal against Arsenal and flashes of talent, Antony has struggled to adapt to the pace and physicality of the Premier League. Questions have been raised over his end product, work rate, and decision-making. Last season, he scored just 2 goals in 29 league appearances, a statistic far below what is expected of a starting winger at one of Europe’s top clubs.
Compounding the issue were off-field controversies, including allegations that drew media attention and contributed to disruptions in his playing time and focus. While he was eventually cleared of wrongdoing, the entire episode painted a picture of a player unsettled and struggling to handle the weight of his transfer fee and expectations.
—
The Unexpected Twist: Saudi Arabia Enters the Picture
Just as it seemed United might have to settle for a significant financial loss or keep Antony on the books as a rotation option, the transfer landscape shifted. A Saudi Arabian club, believed to be Al Hilal or Al Ahli, has emerged as a serious contender for the winger’s signature.
This is the unexpected boost Manchester United were hoping for.
According to reports, initial contact has already been made between representatives of the Saudi club and Antony’s entourage. Crucially, the club is willing to offer a substantial package—one that would help United recover a large portion of the fee they paid to Ajax.
Sources suggest the Saudi club could present a £50–60 million package including bonuses and performance clauses. While this still represents a loss compared to the original £85 million outlay, it is far more acceptable than the cut-price fees being considered from European clubs, some of which were offering no more than £30 million.
—
Why This Is a Boost for Manchester United
The potential transfer boost has wide-reaching implications for Manchester United:
1. Financial Relief
United are operating under Financial Fair Play (FFP) constraints, especially with a major squad overhaul underway under new manager Rúben Amorim. Offloading Antony for a respectable fee would free up both funds and wages, creating space for new signings in priority positions such as central midfield, defence, and attack.
2. Squad Clarity
Amorim has made it clear he wants a tight, focused squad, and Antony is among the players who have trained separately from the main group during pre-season. Removing uncertainty around his future helps streamline the manager’s plans and allows him to focus on players who are fully committed to the project.
3. Opportunity to Reinforce
If Antony is sold, United could immediately reinvest in a younger, more productive winger. Names like Michael Olise, Pedro Neto, and Nico Williams have been mentioned as potential targets. Amorim wants dynamic wide players who can defend, press, and contribute goals—traits Antony has lacked at United.
—
The Player’s Position: Ready for a New Chapter?
While Antony has not publicly pushed for a move, those close to the player suggest he may be open to restarting his career elsewhere, especially after the scrutiny he’s endured in England. A move to Saudi Arabia would give him a fresh start, a high salary, and the chance to play a starring role in a growing league with less pressure than the Premier League.
The Saudi Pro League has already attracted top Brazilian talent such as Neymar, Firmino, and Malcom, which could make the transition easier for Antony. Additionally, the player’s representatives are believed to be evaluating the offer seriously, as it may be the most attractive proposal on the table at this stage of his career.
—
United’s Stance: Open to Sale, But On Their Terms
United have not officially placed Antony on the transfer list, but sources inside the club confirm they are open to letting him go—provided the offer meets their valuation. The club does not want to be pressured into a cut-price deal, especially with scrutiny already surrounding previous poor transfer dealings.
New CEO Omar Berrada and sporting director Jason Wilcox are said to be handling the negotiations with clear financial targets in mind. The goal is to recoup as much of the original investment as possible and avoid a loan move or lowball fee that would reflect poorly on the club’s evolving transfer policy.
—
Fan Reaction: Cautious Optimism
Among the Manchester United fanbase, the news of a potential Antony departure has been met with relief and cautious optimism. While there is disappointment that a player once seen as a marquee talent hasn’t delivered, most fans agree that moving him on is the right step.
Many are hoping the funds from his sale will be reinvested wisely, and that the club can finally build a squad of players who fit Amorim’s tactical philosophy and the modern demands of elite football.
—
Conclusion: A Transfer Door Opens Just in Time
Manchester United have been handed a massive transfer boost with the unexpected emergence of Saudi interest in Antony. What once looked like a difficult asset to move could now become an opportunity to reset and rebuild.
If negotiations continue positively and the deal goes through, United will benefit in multiple ways: financially, tactically, and culturally. It would mark the end of a disappointing chapter but also signal the club’s readiness to make tough decisions and correct past mistakes.
For Antony, it could be the beginning of a new journey—one away from the pressure of Manchester, in a league eager for international stardom. For United, it’s a chance to reshape the right wing with a player better suited to their future.
In the volatile world of football transfers, timing is everything—and this surprise development could turn out to be a defining moment in Manchester United’s summer window.
Leave a Reply