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Antony’s Old Trafford Exit: Real Betis Lead the Chase

Manchester United’s summer shake-up is well underway, with news emerging that Antony dos Santos is edging closer to an exit. As reported by Sport, the Brazilian winger is the “big target” for Real Betis Balompié this transfer window, and the player’s intent is clear. Antony has shown an “unusual predisposition” to join the green-and-whites, even training in Betis gear during his downtime.

Antony Frozen Out by Amorim

New Manchester United manager Rúben Amorim has wasted no time making decisions. Antony, alongside Marcus Rashford, Alejandro Garnacho, Jadon Sancho and Tyrell Malacia, has been informed he is surplus to requirements. According to Sport, these players “already know first-hand that the coach has put the cross on them”. They will not join the club’s upcoming Asia and United States tour, training instead back in Manchester.

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The Antony situation reflects a wider squad “cleaning” under Amorim, as the Portuguese manager reshapes the squad in his image. United’s hierarchy has made it clear they are “open to any offer that arrives” for the out-of-favour players, with Antony top of the list.

Betis Negotiation Strategy

Real Betis are playing their hand carefully. Manu Fajardo, sporting director, and Ramón Alarcón, CEO, aim to negotiate patiently. Their plan, as Sport explains, is to offer United a deal structured over time, with “a percentage of the player’s rights” and a “mandatory purchase option next season”.

United are reportedly demanding €40 million to recover some of the €100 million they spent signing Antony from Ajax. Betis, however, are only prepared to reach halfway, offering a €20 million payment now and another €20 million in 2026-27. Sport calls this “the middle point” that might resolve the deadlock.

Salary Compromises

There has been speculation over Antony’s salary demands, but contrary to rumours, Sport confirms Betis would offer between €5-6 million gross, similar to what Nabil Fekir once earned. Crucially, this aligns with the financial fair play restrictions of LaLiga and fits into the Betis wage hierarchy led by star man Isco Alarcón. “There are things that are not discussed,” the article notes, underlining the importance of wage balance in the dressing room.

Antony’s Desire to Leave

Perhaps most striking in this saga is Antony’s determination to make the move. Far from being a mercenary deal, Sport reports that the Brazilian “only thinks about the green-and-white” and is determined to make it happen. For a player whose Old Trafford chapter has been marred by inconsistency and off-field distractions, this feels like the fresh start both he and the club need.

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From a Manchester United fan’s perspective, this report brings a huge sense of relief. Rúben Amorim is clearly stamping his authority, and Antony’s departure feels overdue. When Antony arrived from Ajax, many hoped he would bring flair and goals, but aside from the occasional brilliant moment — like his recent free-kick goal against Fiorentina — he has flattered to deceive.

Most supporters will welcome Betis’s interest, particularly since United appear to be holding out for a sensible financial package. Amorim has made it clear that no player is untouchable, and fans are backing his decisions. There is hope that the funds recouped from Antony’s sale can be reinvested in areas where the squad desperately needs depth, like central midfield and right-back.

It is also encouraging to see that United’s management is not simply offloading players at bargain prices. The €40 million valuation, while a loss on the original fee, at least shows lessons have been learned. The fact that Antony is willing to take a salary cut to leave further underlines how necessary this move has become for both sides.

In short, this looks like the right deal at the right time. Fans are cautiously optimistic that under Amorim, United will finally shed some of the dead wood and start building a team with hunger, discipline and ambition.