Antony’s turbulent Manchester United career took another twist this week as the Brazilian winger dropped a bombshell that he was “very close” to joining Liverpool in 2022 as a Mohamed Salah replacement. Now, after flopping at Old Trafford and reviving his career on loan at Real Betis, United have slapped a €50m (£41.3m) price tag on his head but as per reports by Fichajes, Real Betis are likely to walk away from the negotiations considering the price too high.
In a candid interview with Kooora, Antony revealed Jurgen Klopp’s side were deep in talks to sign him two summers ago. At the time, Salah’s contract stalemate had Liverpool scrambling for wingers. “I was this close to signing for Liverpool,” Antony admitted. “But you never know how life works.” Instead, Salah penned a new deal, and Antony followed Erik ten Hag to United in a massive £86m move.
Antony now calls Salah “an amazing player… among the best in the world.” Meanwhile, his own United stint spiralled into a nightmare with just 17 goal contributions in 96 games, endless stepovers, and a fanbase revolt.
Since his transfer to Real Betis in January, Antony’s found his mojo back. Three goals and two assists in six games, including a stunning solo strike against Getafe, have silenced critics and at the same time raised questions on how United players are performing once leaving the club. Marcus Rashford is a similar example at Aston Villa. “I’ve reconnected with myself here,” Antony shares. Manager Manuel Pellegrini’s faith in him is paying off, with Betis eyeing Europa League qualification.
But United’s new hierarchy, led by Sir Jim Ratcliffe, isn’t handing out discounts. Betis hoped to negotiate a cut-price deal, but sources claim Ratcliffe’s €50m demand has left the LaLiga side moving on to different targets as they are unlikely to match the asking price.
Betis face Real Madrid this weekend with Antony cleared to play after his red card appeal. A strong showing could pressure United to lower their asking price to Betis, but Ratcliffe’s playing hardball in a move to re-coup some money from the hefty price they paid for Antony.
For Antony, the stakes are personal. “I’m happy here, but who knows?” he shrugs. With United likely stuck footing his wages until 2027, this saga’s far from over.