Frank Christian
Manchester United is set to revamp its roster during the upcoming January transfer window, and winger Antony may be part of those changes.
The Brazilian player has become emblematic of the team’s challenges under manager Erik ten Hag, who spent £82 million ($106 million) to acquire him from Ajax before the 2022/23 season.
Although they celebrated winning the Dutch Eredivisie together during the 2021/22 season in Amsterdam, Antony’s tenure at Manchester has not gone well.
With just five goals scored in his first two years with the club, he has found himself falling down the selection list, particularly with the influx of new players Rasmus Hojlund and Joshua Zirkzee.
As he approaches a pivotal moment in his career, both United and Antony are reportedly weighing their options, with important choices expected early in 2025.
Contract Status and Market Value
Antony’s transfer to Manchester marked him as the club’s third-most expensive acquisition, following Romelu Lukaku and Paul Pogba.
His existing contract is valid until June 2027, and it includes a one-year extension option, should United reassess their perspective on his future. Nonetheless, his market value has plummeted to around £18 million ($23 million) as his journey in English football struggles to gain momentum.
Potential Transfer Paths for Antony
Given his current standing in the squad is unlikely to improve—regardless of Ten Hag’s future—the 24-year-old has two main avenues to exit in January.
According to Dutch media, particularly from De Telegraaf, Ajax is contemplating a significant move to bring him back in 2025, but they are inclined to offer only about £20 million ($25 million), whereas United aims to recover double that amount.
This desire to recoup a substantial portion of their initial investment has led Ajax to be cautious, and some club officials are reportedly uncertain if re-signing Antony would be beneficial for his revival.
However, sources from Goal.com suggest that a loan transfer in January seems more probable, with Premier League clubs Crystal Palace and Newcastle United showing interest in a temporary arrangement, should Antony wish to reinvigorate his career in the EPL.
