Man Utd Transfer: Manchester United Receive Al-Nassr Offer for Antony: Brazilian Winger Set for Old Trafford Exit Under Ruben Amorim
Manchester United have reportedly received a formal offer from Saudi Pro League club Al-Nassr for Brazilian winger Antony, as per transfer expert Santi Aouna. The bid signals a potential turning point for the 24-year-old’s tumultuous tenure at Old Trafford, with new incoming manager Ruben Amorim believed to have excluded the player from his future plans. Antony, once viewed as a statement signing under Erik ten Hag, is now expected to leave before the end of the 2025 summer transfer window.
While the exact value of Al-Nassr’s offer is not yet public, sources close to the situation suggest the figure is between £35 million and £40 million—a significant markdown from the £85.5 million United paid Ajax for the winger in 2022. Nevertheless, the Premier League giants appear open to cutting their losses as they embark on a rebuild under Amorim and the INEOS sporting structure.
The Rise and Decline of Antony at United
Antony’s arrival in 2022 was met with immense hype. Reuniting with former Ajax boss Erik ten Hag, the Brazilian was brought in as the long-term solution to United’s right-wing problem. Known for his flair, close control, and spectacular left-footed strikes, Antony’s price tag was a topic of heavy debate, but many hoped his technical quality would justify the investment.
However, despite a promising start—scoring in his first three Premier League games—Antony’s form quickly deteriorated. His inconsistency, lack of end product, and predictable one-dimensional style made him a target for criticism. In 82 appearances for the club, Antony has produced only 9 goals and 5 assists, hardly the return expected from a marquee signing.
Beyond the pitch, Antony has also had to deal with off-field controversies, including personal legal issues that temporarily affected his involvement with the national team and club. Though no charges were brought against him, the situation clouded his future and may have contributed to the club’s desire for a clean break.
Ruben Amorim’s Vision and Antony’s Exclusion
The appointment of Ruben Amorim marks a shift in Manchester United’s tactical and cultural direction. The Portuguese coach is known for his possession-based, vertical football, demanding high levels of intelligence, adaptability, and defensive contribution from his wingers.
Reports suggest Amorim does not see Antony as compatible with his tactical system. According to insiders, the new manager prefers more direct, multi-functional wingers capable of switching flanks, pressing aggressively, and contributing consistently in goal creation. Names like Michael Olise (now at Bayern) and Nico Williams have already been mentioned as potential replacements.
The decision to let Antony leave is therefore not merely financial—it’s footballing. Amorim’s emphasis on balance, efficiency, and technical sharpness leaves little room for a player who has yet to prove he can adapt beyond his natural tendencies.
Al-Nassr’s Interest and Saudi Pro League Ambitions
Al-Nassr, one of the biggest clubs in Saudi Arabia, has been on a mission to attract top European talent. With Cristiano Ronaldo, Sadio Mané, and Marcelo Brozović already in their ranks, they now see Antony as a valuable addition to strengthen their attacking options.
The Saudi club believes that Antony, still only 24, can reignite his career in a less intense league and rediscover the confidence that made him one of the Eredivisie’s most exciting players. For Antony, the move offers a chance to escape the relentless pressure of the Premier League and play in a system that may allow more creative freedom.
It’s also worth noting that United and Al-Nassr have a healthy working relationship, dating back to the Cristiano Ronaldo saga. This could facilitate a smooth negotiation, especially if Antony agrees to personal terms.
Financial Implications for Manchester United
While accepting an offer in the region of £35–40 million would mean a considerable financial loss, the club’s new sporting regime is focusing less on sunk cost and more on squad optimization. Offloading Antony would:
Free up significant wages (estimated £200,000 per week)
Create space for incoming wingers or academy talent
Offer United liquidity to reinvest in more dynamic, system-suited profiles
Remove a high-profile distraction from the squad dynamic
INEOS is also placing pressure on sporting director Dan Ashworth and CEO Omar Berrada to clear out underperforming assets and reshape the team with more effective recruitment.
Replacements Already on the Radar
With Antony’s departure now increasingly likely, United have accelerated their scouting and negotiations for new wingers. Ruben Amorim wants versatility and speed out wide, and the club has been linked with several names, including:
Johan Bakayoko (PSV) – Young, explosive, and highly technical
Crysencio Summerville (Leeds) – A cheaper, Premier League-ready option
Nico Williams (Athletic Club) – Though more expensive, fits Amorim’s system well
Arda Güler (Real Madrid, loan) – A creative dynamo who could operate in wide or central roles
Antony’s sale could potentially finance a portion of these deals, or at the very least, clear space in the dressing room and wage structure for a more productive player.
A Move That Benefits All Parties
From a purely analytical standpoint, a move to Al-Nassr makes sense for all involved:
Manchester United cut their losses on an underperforming asset and reinvest in a player more suited to the club’s new tactical philosophy.
Antony gets a chance to rebuild his career away from constant scrutiny, in a league increasingly rich in talent and infrastructure.
Al-Nassr land a technically skilled, high-profile Brazilian winger who still has significant brand value and upside.
For Antony, this could be a career-saving move. At 24, he’s too young to be written off, but it’s clear he needs a fresh start in an environment where the pressure is more manageable, and the expectations more realistic. At Al-Nassr, he would be closer to the spotlight of global football through the Saudi League’s media growth, while also enjoying more creative license on the pitch.
Conclusion: The End of the Antony Era at United
The writing appears to be on the wall: Antony’s time at Manchester United is coming to an end. His dream move from Ajax has not worked out, and with Ruben Amorim now steering the club in a new direction, the Brazilian has no clear role in the future project.
While some fans may be disappointed by how his story unfolded, most would agree that this is a necessary move for the player and the club. For United, it’s about making brave decisions and ensuring that the squad reflects both ambition and functionality. For Antony, it’s about rediscovering the joy of football—and proving that he still has what it takes to shine on a different stage.
All eyes now turn to Old Trafford and Riyadh as negotiations continue. Whether the deal is completed in the coming days or weeks, it appears inevitable: Antony is on his way out, and a new chapter beckons—one far from the Theatre of Dreams
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