Manchester United and Real Betis have struck a deal over a permanent transfer of Antony, the reliable David Ornstein has confirmed.
Betis spent the latter half of last season out on loan at Betis, where he enjoyed a dramatic uptick in form and fortunes. ‘
He joined United in August 2023 in a deal worth around 95m plus a further 5m in add-ons. He enjoyed a decent debut season in England, but his performances declined and eventually, he fell out of favour under Erik ten Hag.
Ruben Amorims arrival did little to improve Antonys situation, with the Brazilian struggling to force his way into the Portuguese coachs plans. However, his spell at Betis proved far more rewarding, where he registered nine goals and five assists in 26 appearances across all competitions.
Antony helped the Spanish side attain a sixth-placed league finish and reach the final of the UEFA Conference League, where they suffered a 4-1 defeat to Chelsea.
Betis were unsurprisingly keen to bring him back but talks with United dragged on all summer and at times, it appeared like a transfer would not materialise.
Los Verdiblancos initially wanted a season-long loan agreement with the option to make the player’s stay a permanent one at the end of 2025/26. United rejected this, insisting on a permanent sale.
On Friday, it emerged that United had reached an agreement in principle with Betis over Antonys transfer. However, negotiations seemingly broke down over a dispute concerning the significant salary cut the Brazilian would incur by leaving Old Trafford.
Betis even issued a statement confirming that they had withdrawn their offer.
However, it seems that all parties went back to the negotiation table and according to Ornstein, a full agreement is now in place.
Ornstein has revealed, “Real Betis and Manchester United have agreed a 25m package for the transfer of Brazilian winger Antony. The deal will include a 50% sell-on clause.”
“Betis have sought to bring Antony back to Spain all summer long and matters have been inching towards a conclusion, with sources indicating to The Athletic the clubs agreed a fee of 25m (21.6m), with an additional 3m in potential bonuses.”
Ornstein notes that United will make no further payment to Antony.
Featured image Octavio Passos via Getty Images
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Derick Kinoti Derick Kinoti is a football writer at The Peoples Person who has covered Manchester United and the game extensively for many years. He is a keen analyst with expertise in SEO and journalism standards. Derick is convinced Wayne Rooney is the true GOAT and won’t hear otherwise!
