There is a new bid incoming from Manchester United to Ajax, as the Northern club pushes to complete a move for promising winger Antony. According to The Athletic’s Laurie Whitwell, the two clubs have been discussing the fee and structure of the deal recently, with Ajax hoping for around £85 million for the player.
Manchester United Prepare New Bid for Antony
Manchester United are preparing new Antony bid.
Ajax insisting on €100m but discussions have taken place over fee + structure.
Ambitious hopes Gakpo might also join are fading.
P.S. Morata talks ended last week over price.#MUFC @TheAthleticUKhttps://t.co/bVWg25nUN1
— Laurie Whitwell (@lauriewhitwell) August 24, 2022
What Do Ajax Want from a New Bid?
Laurie Whitwell believes that Ajax are insistent on a fee of £85 million. Thankfully for the Red Devils, the fact Ajax are discussing the structure of the deal implies that this spend is not all upfront.
Despite being part of Europe’s elite, Ajax remains something of a selling club. However, after seeing Lisandro Martinez move to the Old Trafford outfit earlier in the window, the side from Amsterdam are under no financial pressure to complete the sale. Erik ten Hag’s former club can comfortably set a price that they see fit, rather than bending to the financial might of the Glazers’ outfit.
Read More: Copa America Champion Lisandro Martínez to Potentially Join Manchester United
Does Antony Want the Move?
The Brazilian winger has a clear interest in the move. Fabrizio Romano reported that a long-term deal is agreed upon between Antony and Manchester United. Mike McGrath at The Telegraph corroborates this report, stating that the player’s agents are in England discussing an agreement with the Old Trafford hierarchy. In a World Cup year competing at the highest level is important for the Brazilian, especially with competition for places against the likes of Neymar, Richarlison, Raphinha and Vinicius Jr.
Antony deal. New bid not submitted yet but Manchester United have not changed their plan since yesterday: new proposal will be made soon. Antony and his agent are waiting as long term deal is agreed. 🚨🔴🇧🇷 #MUFC
Ajax insist on huge price tag, trying to keep Brazilian star. pic.twitter.com/XLGfHBYXAL
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) August 24, 2022
Does the Move Solve Manchester United’s Problem?
Moving to Manchester United is an excellent move for Antony. However, it does not solve the club’s issues. Whilst relatively light on wide players, Carrington sees a dearth of strikers in training. Meanwhile, Antony focuses on playing in wide positions and cutting inside to finish.
Regardless of whether Antony solves the right problem, the Brazilian is another tool in Ten Hag’s belt. After beating Liverpool the Manchester side are looking to kickstart the season, and the winger’s flair and creativity can make a big difference to the morale and quality of the squad.
