Why Antony may be too expensive for Man Utd

Karan Tejwani

Updated: 28 Jun 2022 09:32 BST
3 min read

Manchester United are facing budget issues in their pursuit of Ajax winger Antony, with other targets taking precedence as Erik Ten Hag prepares for the news season.

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United fans were hoping for a huge summer transfer window, having ended last season so poorly, missing out on Champions League football, but have been quite slow in completing deals.

They secured a new manager in Erik ten Hag, who left Ajax, and have identified a series of targets to improve their team, but have yet to complete a move for a player.

Most of their efforts have been concentrated on Barcelona’s Frenkie de Jong, and they have been in talks with the Spanish club for about a month, with an agreement reportedly close.

Man Utd may be priced out of Antony move

They’ve also been lining up a move for Antony, but may not have enough in the budget, as the Dutch champions are demanding a fee of around £69m.

Several sources have reported that United have a budget of around £100m for this summer, which may make it difficult to pursue other targets.

A move for De Jong may cost £67m, leaving Ten Hag’s side with a small chunk left over the make a move for others, unless sales are made.

There has been plenty of criticism over the speed at which transfer targets have been chased this summer, which has only intensified as rivals like Arsenal, Manchester City and Liverpool have already completed big transfers.

Antony plays on the wing – a position which needs strengthening, but for the price demanded by Ajax, it seems United will be unlikely to make a move.

Antony situation. Manchester United are really interested and already had contacts to explore potential deal - not the only club, but with ten Hag pushing. 🇧🇷 #MUFC

Been told player’s camp now asking Ajax to listen to bids for Antony this summer, even if price tag will be high. pic.twitter.com/OELd3cxASi
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) June 23, 2022

They were hoping to pay a fee of around £40m, which won’t be accepted by the Dutch club as they are selling one of the brightest talents on the back of a positive season.

The Brazilian scored 12 goals last season across all competitions for the club, and even made his Brazil debut in 2021, becoming a regular in Tite’s side.

At 22, he’s one of the most highly-rated players in the game, and securing his services will not come cheap, as the Red Devils have come to learn.