Man United are closing in on a deal to sign Antony.
Amongst Erik ten Hag’s big needs is a new attacker. Manchester United have spent plenty of time chasing Antony – a player who the Reds’ new Dutch manager worked with at Ajax.
At the start of the window, we all felt pretty good about our chances of that deal happening. However, Ajax remained firm on their asking price, leading to a point where a deal was completely off the agenda.
After failing in the pursuit of other potential winger options, United’s heads have turned back to Antony over the last week or so.
Now, according to Sky Sports, United are ‘close to agreeing’ a deal to sign the attacker. The fee is eyewatering, thought to be around the £85m (€100m) mark.
Antony wasn’t in the squad for Ajax’s game at the weekend, with personal terms not expected to be a problem. The move is now ‘expected to accelerate’ over the next 24-48 hours.
So the first thing to note here is that this is a massive overpay. United are breaking the bank for a player who has good numbers in Holland, though his game may not directly translate to the Premier League.
At the end of the day, Ten Hag has identified the player he wants and trusts. United have to negotiate the fee and as a collective, they’re seemingly happy to pay this amount.
What I love about Antony is the fact that he is willing to do anything to reunite with his former gaffer. From handing in a formal transfer request, to not playing in Ajax’s last couple of games, the Brazil international is doing his bit.
It does look like this deal will get done. I would expect that all parties involved will be happy with the outcome. That massive transfer fee will greatly benefit Ajax in the long run, whereas United are getting the player they want.
Do you think Antony will be a good addition for Man United? Let us know your thoughts in the comment box below.
Nice one, though he is a bit expensive but nevertheless, is a great addition to the squad