Ajax manager Alfred Schreuder has finally broken his silence on reported Manchester United transfer target Antony.
United boss Erik ten Hag is desperate to bring Antony to Old Trafford before the transfer window closes.
And the 22-year-old has asked the powers that be at the Dutch club to help facilitate his move to United (De Telegraaf).
The Brazilian ace is an exceptional young talent, and he won’t come cheap. De Telegraaf reckon that United are planning a new €95 million bid (£80m) for the winger to test Ajax’s resolve. The Eredivisie giants want at least €100 million for Antony though (£85m).
United fans will be hoping that that fee will be enough to bring the South American to Old Trafford this summer. We certainly think it’s a possibility but the Ajax manager doesn’t seem to agree.
Ajax manager breaks silence on Manchester United target
The Dutch club are really digging their heels in with this one. Alfred Schreuder spoke to De Telegraaf and insisted that he’s counting on Antony to stay at the club:
“I also expect him to stay. Why? Because I’m his coach. But of course it’s not up to me. I don’t decide who will or will not be sold. But I’m counting on him to stay. I think €80m is an incredible amount of money and I have that with €100m. But we’ve already let a lot of players go. We want to keep a strong squad. And new players have arrived. We have also told them what our plans are.”
Well, that sounds fairly emphatic, doesn’t it?
Of course, money talks though. And if Man United pay Ajax in excess of £90/100m, then we believe Ajax will have no option but to sell him.
The Brazilian would be a sensational addition to Ten Hag’s ranks at Old Trafford.
Antony has drawn comparisons with Brazilian legends Neymar and Ronaldinho (Goal). On top of all of that, Manchester Evening News have labelled him a ‘scintillating’ player.
He bagged 12 goals and 10 assists in 33 games for Ajax last season. The previous campaign he chalked up 10 goals and 10 assists in 46 games. Those are impressive numbers for someone so young.
He can play on either wing, is exceptionally fast and possesses incredible technique. Antony’s play is quintessentially Brazilian – he plays with an abundance of flair and always tries to excite the crowd.
United signing Antony this summer could end up being a transcending signing for the club. It remains to be seen whether Ajax give in and allow him to join the Red Devils though.
Judging by their manager’s comments, they are not prepared to let him leave this summer without a fight.
Read also: Manchester United told to pay £42 million for 23-year-old.
