Following his claims that Ajax had previously “refused” to let him go, Brazilian superstar Antony is now on his way to Manchester United, as Fabrizio Romano confirms his megabucks move to the English Premier League with his trademark “here we go” catchphrase.
The only obstacle left before this deal can go through is the formalities. Antony is expected to undergo his medical on Monday, while his visa and work permit will also need to be sorted.
Fabrizio Romano Confirms Manchester United Will Sign Antony
Antony to Manchester United, here we go! Agreement in principle with Ajax, €100m fee. Contract until June 2027 with option until 2028. To be signed tomorrow. 🚨🔴🇧🇷 #MUFC
Contracts being prepared, it’s Eredivisie historical record fee — Antony will be in Manchester next week. pic.twitter.com/Wr9mUiX1Ud
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) August 28, 2022
How United’s Pursuit has Played Out
Earlier reports had stated terms had been agreed between the player and United, despite Ajax’s refusal to sell. Antony claimed the club had told him that the reason for the rejection was a lack of suitable time to replace him.
Manchester United are really close to signing Antony! Ajax finally accepted to negotiate on the fee and add-ons structure to reach €100m. Talks will continue later today. 🚨🔴 #MUFC
No full agreement in place yet but United feel they’re finally close.
Antony, pushing to leave. pic.twitter.com/q6mOizis6E
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) August 28, 2022
That appears to have changed, however, with Dutch journalist Gerjan Hamstelaar tweeting earlier on Sunday that “Antony is gone”, it looks like the Red Devils are about to get their man.
What Will United Be Getting in Antony?
Antony is a thrilling player to see in full flow, with his attacking play a marvel to behold in the wide areas and final third. Although United already possess some terrific forward talent in the likes of Marcus Rashford and Jadon Sancho, both players are prone to inconsistency and have failed to sparkle as much as they have the potential to do so while at Old Trafford. The new blood brought to the club by this big money signing could both bring a new potent threat to United, and light a spark under the players already present in Erik ten Hag’s squad, with the Dutchman set to reunite with his former player.
What took this all so long to get settled?
Antony claimed Ajax’s refusal to sell him was down to a lack of time to identify and secure a suitable replacement. It’s difficult to sign players no matter what, but with few days remaining of the transfer window, and teams aware of a large windfall of cash arriving in Amsterdam, clubs will be very difficult to deal with, knowing Ajax’s desperation. Losing the player at this moment in time will be detrimental to Ajax’s season, despite their positive start to the Eredivisie campaign.
