Recent reports from GOAL Brasil state that Manchester United are keen on signing Ajax winger Antony in the upcoming transfer window as Erik Ten Hag looks set to add to his attacking options ahead of the 2022/23 season.
The report claims that Antony’s representatives are in Europe to progress and, if possible, finalise the deal with the Manchester side. With the Brazilian forward valued at 60 million euros, a significant breakthrough is expected in the coming days.
‘According to GOAL’s investigation, Antony’s staff is already in Europe. The purpose of the trip is to accelerate, and perhaps close, the possible deal between the player and the Manchester club.’ – The translated version of the report stated.
Having come through the ranks at Brazilian Serie A club Sao Paulo, Antony Matheus dos Santos, or simply Antony, signed for Ajax in the summer of 2020 for a fee in the region of £14.18 million. Over the course of the past three years, the 22-year-old has made 79 appearances for de Godenzonen, scoring 22 goals and bagging 20 assists across all competitions.
The 4th Official uses images provided by the following image agency:
Getty Images (https://www.gettyimages.de/)
Imago Images (https://www.imago-images.de/)
Before picking up an ankle injury towards the end of the 2021/22 season, the Brazilian international played a crucial role in Ajax’s Eredivisie-winning campaign with 12 goals and ten assists in 33 league appearances. Besides, he managed to put up some awe-inspiring numbers on the board the last term – averaging 3.4 shots, 1.6 key passes, 1.8 dribbles, 1.1 crosses and one long ball per ninety minutes in the Dutch top-flight. Furthermore, with an average WhoScored rating of 7.50, he established himself as one of the best players on his side the past season.
Ten Hag Should Get Him On Board
Antony’s attempt to secure a move to one of the toughest leagues in the world before taking part in the World Cup later this year shows that he is prepared to take up a new challenge. Erik Ten Hag’s good relationship with the player might play a considerable part during the negotiations as he reached his best level under the Dutchman’s stewardship.
Given the present state of the team, Manchester United need some fresh recruitments in the attacking department if they intend to strengthen the current squad – and Antony fits the bill perfectly. At 22, he has emerged as one of Europe’s top wingers and will add much-needed depth to the United squad. Hence, the board should try and get this deal over the line in the coming days.
(Stats from WhoScored)
