Report: Saudi Clubs Step Up Interest in Man Utd £86m Winger Amid Uncertain Future | OneFootball

Antony Facing Uncertain Future as Saudi Interest Grows

Saudi Clubs Circle Antony’s Situation

Manchester United winger Antony is drawing interest from two top Saudi Pro League clubs, according to Sky Sports. The Brazilian’s future at Old Trafford appears increasingly uncertain, especially after a productive loan spell at Real Betis last season. However, despite Betis’ willingness to extend the relationship, a permanent move seems unlikely due to financial constraints.

“Antony thrived at Betis,” Sky Sports noted, highlighting his impressive tally of nine goals and five assists across 26 appearances. Yet with Betis unable to afford a full transfer and only open to another loan, United are understood to be holding out for a permanent deal.

Ten Hag Reunion Off the Table

Antony’s old boss at Ajax, Erik ten Hag, now at Bayer Leverkusen, appears to have ruled out a reunion for now. Although early links suggested a potential move to the Bundesliga might be on the cards, Ten Hag told German media: “We are not interested at the moment”, before hinting that “we’ll see what happens in the future.”

Photo: IMAGO

The quotes suggest Leverkusen may have balked at the financial demands from United, who are keen to recoup part of the £86 million they paid Ajax in 2022.

Bayern Munich have also been monitoring Antony’s availability, but their current focus remains on strengthening the left wing, not the right, where Antony plays.

Real Betis Reunion Unlikely

Despite his positive impact in Spain, Antony’s time at Betis is likely over — at least for now. The La Liga side remain interested, but only in another loan. That falls short of what United are seeking, particularly during a summer where the club are actively reshaping the squad to improve financial flexibility and free up space for new signings.

Saudi Move Gathering Momentum

With options narrowing in Europe, Saudi Arabia may now represent the most concrete opportunity. According to Sky Sports, “the interest from Saudi Arabia is thought to be increasing and Antony maybe open to exploring the idea.”

However, the player is understood to prefer staying in Europe, meaning any offer from the Saudi Pro League would need to be compelling both financially and professionally. For now, Antony appears content to wait, weighing up what could be a pivotal next step in his career.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

As a United fan, it is difficult not to view Antony’s situation with a mix of disappointment and realism. When he signed for £86 million under Erik ten Hag, expectations were sky-high. But inconsistency and off-field noise have left him in a grey area. While his stint at Betis offered glimpses of quality, it says something when even they can’t justify a full move.

From a financial perspective, United need to make shrewd sales this summer. If the Saudi Pro League is offering a clean exit route and decent money, the club should absolutely take it. Sentiment has no place when a rebuild is on the table, especially under a new sporting leadership structure.

As for Leverkusen, Ten Hag saying “we are not interested at the moment” is pretty telling. Even his former mentor is cautious, and that alone should raise eyebrows. The potential of another loan would just kick the can down the road and stall squad development further.

Many United fans are starting to accept that Antony might never justify his price tag. He’s had chances, and while his flair occasionally sparks, the end product hasn’t matched the investment. If Saudi clubs want him, and Antony agrees, it might be the best move for all parties involved.