A sporting director has revealed that he has “constant contact” with Manchester United over one potential summer transfer but he’s not telling the entire truth.
Manchester United opted to send Antony out on loan during the January transfer window due to his reduced role under manager Ruben Amorim at Old Trafford.
The Brazilian winger joined Spanish side Real Betis, where he has experienced a remarkable resurgence. The 25-year-old has tallied eight goals and five assists across 24 appearances.
He has also impressed in the Europa Conference League, contributing four goals and three assists in Betis’ road to the final—highlighted by a stunning strike against Fiorentina in the first leg of the semi-final.
Antony’s impressive form on loan is a positive development for United, who are expected to explore a permanent transfer for him during the upcoming summer window.
Betis chief “constant contact” with United over Antony
Betis have made it clear that they want to keep Antony next season and their sporting director, Manu Fajardo, has explained that there is ‘constant contact’ with United over a potential move.
“Yes, yes, there already have been [talks],” he confirmed, via Sport Witness. “There is a close and respectful relationship with Manchester United, and we are in constant contact with them.
“We have been talking with them since his arrival. We have to take great care of this asset, so that big clubs and players of this calibre continue to trust us.”
If the United loanee can help deliver in the Europa Conference League final against Chelsea, it would be the first time Betis have lifted European silverware in their history.
“We will give everything so that players like Antony can join our club,” continued Fajardo.
Betis are not telling the truth about Antony pursuit
For those at United, actions speak louder than words and they will be waiting to see if Betis can actually offer them cash for a deal, rather than another loan move, despite claiming they are doing all they can to keep him.
Various reports have suggested that the Spanish club will only try and extend the loan Antony is currently on, perhaps covering a larger portion of his wages, but it is clear that a permanent exit makes so much more sense.
United only allowed Antony to go on loan in the first place to try and help raise his value and that objective has been ticked off. The Reds need the cash and another short-term exit doesn’t provide that.
Other clubs are likely to become interested in him, and while Betis can continue to talk a strong game, they are not telling the entire truth and cannot expect to secure the Brazilian without putting their money where their mouth is.
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