One of Manchester United's 'bomb squad' members, Antony (25), is increasingly likely to head to Saudi Arabia. It is reported that Al Nassr, where Cristiano Ronaldo (40) plays, has officially moved.
French media 'Foot Mercato' reported on the 27th (Korean time), "Al Nassr has made a proposal to Manchester United for Antony's transfer. The proposed amount has not yet been disclosed, but it is clear that formal contact has been made." The trend of 'big deals' in the Saudi Pro League summer transfer market has now extended to Antony.
Antony has returned to Manchester United after completing his loan to Real Betis this summer. He has a contract lasting until 2027, and Manchester United is said to want a transfer fee of about €60 million (approximately 97.7 billion won). Brazilian media 'UOL' also reported the same, stating that Manchester United is not inclined to sell Antony at a bargain price.
Currently, Manchester United is undergoing a significant rebuilding under coach Rubén Amorim. Facing the season's opener, five players, including Marcus Rashford, Jadon Sancho, Alejandro Garnacho, Tyrell Malacia, and Antony, have been classified as the so-called 'bomb squad' and excluded from the preseason tour roster.
Coach Amorim has made it clear that he will not simply let them go for cheap. In a recent interview, he stated, "If other clubs think they can take our players for a low price, they are seriously mistaken," adding, "We have clear standards, and if they do not meet those standards, the player will remain with the team."
Antony joined Manchester United for a transfer fee close to €100 million (approximately 161.8 billion won) at the strong request of coach Erik Ten Hag in the summer of 2022. However, he has not lived up to expectations, and recently, off-field controversies have significantly shaken his position within the team.
Al Nassr has seized this opportunity. Currently, Al Nassr is at the stage of acquiring João Félix (26, Chelsea) and is showing interest in Antony as it pushes for another big deal. Under the substantial investment of 'NEOM', the Saudi League has already signed players like Alexandre Lacazette, Bulkha, Koné, and Jeje from the French Ligue 1.
From Al Nassr's perspective, there is a need for a card of a 'young Brazilian winger' following Cristiano Ronaldo, Sadio Mané, and Marcelo Brozović, and Antony is an attractive target in terms of marketability, age, and style.
The problem, however, is the price. Manchester United has no intention of sending Antony at a loss, which is the biggest obstacle in the acquisition process.
It is uncertain how serious this proposal will develop. Antony is increasingly running out of choices. The possibility of gaining re-approval under coach Amorim is low, and there has been no significant progress regarding a complete transfer to Real Betis or rumors of a move within Europe.
Joining Al Nassr could reset Antony's career and provide a neat conclusion to his departure from Manchester United. Of course, he would have to forgo the Champions League and Premier League stages, but a stable environment and guaranteed playing opportunities could be attractive alternatives.
Coach Amorim will make a decision as the season opener approaches. The criteria are clear. Whether the transfer fee is met or not, Al Nassr's offer could be the first card that shakes that balance.
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