Real Betis’ president has released a statement on their pursuit of Manchester United winger Antony after his successful loan spell last term.
Manchester United loaned out Antony during the January transfer window last season, as his involvement under Ruben Amorim at Old Trafford had significantly declined.
The Brazilian winger joined Spanish side Real Betis, where he impressively regained his form. In 26 appearances, the 25-year-old notched nine goals and provided five assists.
Antony was also instrumental in Betis’ Europa Conference League run, contributing four goals and three assists as they advanced to the final, though they ultimately lost to Chelsea.
His revival in Spain has been a welcome development for United, who are now considering a permanent sale this summer. Antony has not been included in the club’s pre-season tour squad for that reason.
Betis, eager to retain his services, have been working to try and bring the winger back to Spain since the summer transfer window opened, but there have not been many major developments since then.
Betis president releases statement on Antony
Antony’s transfer to Betis seemed like it could be relatively straight-forward when he was scoring worldies for them last season but they are now much more measured in their approach.
Reports have suggested that the La Liga outfit could wait it out until the end of the window to try and secure the United winger on another loan and their president, Ángel Haro, has spoken on the situation this week.
“Betis has to be rigorous in its financial control. We’ll make efforts when a player is important, like Antony, but always within a strict financial framework,” Haro explained, as per Diario de Sevilla.
“From a financial perspective, it has to fit within our parameters. A purchase depends on United’s price. A loan is more feasible than a buyout, given what Manchester United are asking.
“We’re assuming, and Betis is making efforts, that it could happen, but if it doesn’t, I don’t want it to be seen as a failure. It’s difficult to bring in a player of this quality and such a high financial reward.”
Antony transfer twist explained
But while Betis continue to play games, there have been movements regarding Antony’s future, with the latest reports suggesting he could be set for a move elsewhere.
It has been claimed that Atletico Madrid have emerged as the frontrunners to sign the 25-year-old, edging ahead of their La Liga rivals in the race for the Brazilian winger.
Antony had also been linked with a potential move to Bayer Leverkusen, which would have reunited him with former United boss Erik ten Hag. However, the Dutchman has played down a potential move.
Despite their current financial constraints, Betis remain in contention for Antony’s signature but a deal is looking difficult to make if they do not find the cash.
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