Manchester United are in talks to sign Brazilian winger Antony from Ajax.
That’s according to journalist Alex Crook, who claims the Red Devils and Ajax are locked in negotiations over a potential deal that would see the South American attacker join former boss Erik ten Hag at Old Trafford.
Although United have their fingers in lots of pies, it is widely accepted that a new midfielder is the club’s summer priority.
Unsurprisingly, ten Hag is targeting a new central midfielder, not only to kick off his new era but also to fill the void recently left by Paul Pogba, Jesse Lingard, Nemanja Matic and Juan Mata.
Barcelona’s Frenkie De Jong this summer’s top target but that doesn’t mean fans can’t begin to get excited by the possibility of the club bringing in at least one new attacker.
Ajax’s Antony – a player ten Hag knows very well, is believed to be high up on the Dutchman’s wishlist. Understandably too – the 22-year-old Brazilian is hugely technical and is a player who has the ability to change games in the blink of an eye.
It won’t be easy striking a deal with the Dutch champions though – they’re rumoured to be asking for between £60m – £80m for their talented young attacker (Marcel van der Kraan via Sky Sports).
However, despite the huge sums being discussed, according to Crook, who spoke to GiveMeSport, United are ‘working hard’, suggesting the 20-time league winners are trying to get the very best deal possible.
“I know United have been working hard on Antony, but the fee that I was given was £40million,” Crook said.
“I think their asking price is nearer £60million so, obviously, there’s negotiating to be done there.”
Since joining Ajax from Sao Paulo back in 2020, Antony, who has three years left on his deal, has gone on to feature in 78 matches, in all competitions, directly contributing to 42 goals along the way.