‘Ten Hag wants Man United outcast Antony at Leverkusen amid new Real Betis talks’
Antony’s agents are currently trying to negotiate a new deal with Real Betis that would see him depart Man United for a second time before the new season.
The Brazilian winger signed for the Red Devils for £86million [Sky Sports] in September 2022 after Erik ten Hag took over the club, having lit up the Eredivisie under the Dutchman with Ajax.
But having fallen out of favour at Old Trafford, Antony joined Spanish side Real Betis on loan, in a bid to play more first-team football after making just eight appearances in the first half of the 2024/25 Premier League season.
To say it went well would be an understatement. The 25-year-old became a fan favourite in the first few weeks of his time in Seville, scoring in three of his first four games for the club.
Antony then transcended from a well-liked member of the team to being revered by Los Verdiblancos’ fans as he became a crucial part of the team that made it to the Conference League final, albeit barely contributing in that game.
Betis would ultimately surrender a 1-0 lead against Chelsea, losing 4-1, but the Brazil international’s impact has caused him to become the clubs’ top priority this summer, according to Diario de Sevilla.
Antony’s agents in Seville to negotiate exit from Man United amid Bayer Leverkusen interest
As reported, Antony’s agents are currently in Seville to hold a meeting with Betis about the winger’s future.
The club have publicly confirmed on numerous occasions that the “main objective” of the summer window is to keep the United man.
One option suggested has been a new loan for Antony that would include a buy-option to keep him at the end of the 2025/26 season.
A meeting will soon take place between Betis and United with the objective of making progress in Antony’s return to Seville next season.
But a potential hiccup could be the interest of Bayer Leverkusen, who just replaced Xabi Alonso with Ten Hag after the Spaniard’s move to Real Madrid, and Juventus, who have “greater financial power” and could make a more enticing offer.
Erik ten Hag interested in bringing Antony to Bayer Leverkusen
Football Insider Verdict
Despite being revered by Betis fans and clearly loving his time in Spain, Antony could be tempted by Leverkusen’s offer in a move which would see him reunited with former United manager Ten Hag.
The pair are well acquainted from their time at Ajax together, and the Dutch manager soon brought the Brazilian to Old Trafford after he was appointed as the Red Devils’ boss.
Antony has enjoyed the best football of his career in Spain, where he has been able to show off his dribbling capabilities more than English football allowed.
Moving to Germany may not be as suitable for his skillset, given the focus on fast, direct play, but ultimately, it will likely come down to the contract that is on offer.