Erik ten Hag plots reunion with ‘thriving’ ex-United protegee in Leverkusen to replace Liverpool-bound star

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·04 de junho de 2025

Erik ten Hag plots reunion with ‘thriving’ ex-United protegee in Leverkusen to replace Liverpool-bound star

In true Erik ten Hag fashion, he’s looking to recruit from his former club after taking the reins at Bayer Leverkusen.

Having waited for an opportunity to present itself since being sacked by Manchester United last October, the Dutch coach was cherry-picked by the Leverkusen board to succeed Xabi Alonso, who pulled the curtains on his illustrious tenure in Germany when Real Madrid came knocking.

Vídeos OneFootball

Already has Ten Hag instructed the board to hash out a deal for a fellow SEG client in the form of Mark Flekken from Brentford, while United fans are waiting to see which players he could look to reunite with from his Red Devils tenure.

Erik ten Hag mulls over Antony reunion in Leverkusen

(Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images)

Much to their delight, the manager is keen on bringing ex-Ajax protegee Antony to join his ranks at the BayArena.

MailSport claims Leverkusen have joined Real Betis in pursuit of the ‘thriving’ Antony following his stellar half-season loan spell in Seville, which saw him enjoy a new lease of life and revived run of form.

In the 26 appearances he made for Betis across all competitions, the Brazilian returned nine goals and five assists. He played an influential role in the side securing Europa League qualification via a sixth-placed finish, as well as reaching the UEFA Conference League final, where they were ultimately defeated by Chelsea.

Antony’s uncertain future: The state of play

(Photo by Fran Santiago/Getty Images)

Los Verdiblancos have been doing their utmost to retain Antony for a full campaign, however, United are adamant about only sanctioning his departure through a permanent sale, with Betis unable to meet their demands of £30-35 million.

Leverkusen, on the other hand, are preparing for the impending exit of Liverpool-bound Florian Wirtz. They stand to make upwards of £100m from their talisman’s exit, so will certainly have the funds available to sign a replacement like Antony.