According to a report from Mirror, Manchester United are interested in acquiring Brazilian striker Gabriel Barbosa and are open to a loan part-exchange deal that includes Antony going the other way, in January. The Red Devils continue to struggle for goals with Marcus Rashford struggling to replicate his performances from last season and the other attackers not being up to the mark.
As Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s proposal to purchase a 25 percent stake in the club remains unresolved, United are now formulating January transfer plans. While awaiting significant new investment, the club must adhere to Financial Fair Play regulations and is contemplating cost-effective deals to bolster their attacking options.
Manchester United Eyes Barbosa in Potential Antony Swap Deal
Barbosa, aged 27, has been in excellent form for top-tier Flamengo this season, netting 18 goals in various competitions. He is currently available at a discounted price of £20 million because his contract expires at the end of 2024. Additionally, Flamengo is interested in acquiring Antony, a fellow Brazilian and Manchester United player, on loan as part of the exchange deal for Barbosa.
Antony, who is 23 years old and was signed for £82 million from Ajax in 2022, has yet to score this season and has made only 11 appearances due to a challenging season marked by allegations of domestic abuse. His contract with Manchester United runs until 2027, making a permanent transfer unlikely (stats via whoscored).
Should Ten Hag Go Ahead With The Deal?
Barbosa’s ability to find the back of the net consistently can offer the club a much-needed goal-scoring boost, which has been a persistent issue for the Red Devils this season. However, it’s imperative for Ten Hag to carefully assess Barbosa’s adaptation to the Premier League and whether he can provide the immediate impact United require to climb the ranks in the league.
On the other hand, offering Antony, who arrived at Old Trafford for a hefty fee of £82 million from Ajax in 2022, as part of the exchange is a gamble. The 23-year-old Brazilian winger has faced a challenging season marked by personal issues and allegations of domestic abuse, which has impacted his playing time and performance.
While Antony possesses immense talent and potential, his inconsistency and off-field concerns raise questions about his readiness to make a significant contribution to United’s campaign. Ten Hag must weigh the long-term potential of Antony against the immediate impact of Barbosa and decide if the swap deal aligns with the club’s objectives and if that could certainly help them in the title race this season.
