Manchester United are reportedly considering a swap deal that could see Antony return to Brazil.
The 23-year-old has struggled for form since his £85 million move to Old Trafford in the summer of 2022, scoring just eight goals in 54 appearances across all competitions.
Antony has yet to open his account for the 2023/24 campaign, despite making 10 appearances – but it is important to stress that he’s not the only player underperforming this season.
According to The Mirror, United want to bolster their attacking options and could offer Antony in a part exchange deal for Flamengo forward Gabriel Barbosa. A deal of this nature would see Antony move back to Brazil on a part-exchange loan.
Barbosa, 27, scored 20 goals in 55 appearances for Flamengo last term. He previously played in Europe for Benfica and Inter Milan.
The Reds were linked with a number of other strikers during the week, including Brentford’s Ivan Toney and Napoli’s Victor Osimhen.
However, I think it goes without saying that a deal involving Antony is unlikely to be permanent. Flamengo won’t be able to match or pay anywhere near Antony’s salary.
Furthermore, the winger has a contract until 2027 at Old Trafford and a move like this would be considered ruthless.
Antony has also had issues to deal with away from football after missing several games this season. The club decided to give him a leave of absence in September to defend himself against domestic abuse allegations after three women came forward in Brazil.
After cooperating with police in Sao Paulo and Greater Manchester Police, Antony returned to action in United’s 2-1 win over Brentford last month.
United are currently eight in the Premier League and Antony isn’t the only player being singled out for underperforming. The same applies to Bruno Fernandes and Marcus Rashford as players we expect the best from.
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