Antony's agent responds to Saudi Pro League transfer rumours | OneFootball

Antony's agent has rubbished speculation linking his client with a move to Saudi Arabia before the January transfer window closes.

The 23-year-old has struggled to make an impact at Manchester United following his £86m move from Ajax in the summer of 2022, and only registered his first goal and assist of the campaign during Sunday's 4-2 win over Newport County in the FA Cup fourth round.

Recent speculation has linked Antony with a move away from Old Trafford, with Saudi Pro League officials sensing the opportunity to lure him to the Middle East.

But speaking to Fabrizio Romano, Antony's agent, Junior Pedroso distanced his client from a winter exit, insisting that he has not been contacting United over a potential move.

"We’ve not received any communication from Man Utd about Antony and potential transfer for January or summer window," he said. "Antony has his head focused on doing his best for Manchester [United] and improving his numbers.

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Antony's impact against Newport at the weekend was the first real sign of positivity in what has been a desperately disappointing 2023/24 season. The tricky winger has been in and out of the side, often sitting on the bench during United's biggest games, and has had off-field issues that made him unavailable for selection.

Speaking about his breakthrough strike against Newport, United manager Erik ten Hag was quick to acknowledge that Antony must use the goal as a stepping stone for bigger and better things.

"It’s good. I think Antony got the assist for the first goal for Bruno [Fernandes], and a goal," the Dutchman said. "So end product is what we demand from him and also the rest of his job. It should have been proper and that was, today, the case. I think it was, for many players today, they did their jobs. They co-operated well and acted as a team, with good spirit."