Ajax have reportedly rejected an €80 million bid from Manchester United for Antony, and the Red Devils might not make an improved offer.
According to The Athletic, Manchester United have had a huge offer worth €80 million for Antony knocked back by Ajax, with the Dutch giants keen to retain the player. The Red Devils may not return with an improved bid, as they could switch their attention to alternate targets.
Manchester United fans will wish for nothing but to end the current slump the club finds itself in. Having lost their first two games of the season, including an embarrassing defeat to Brentford, the Red Devils were hoping for a change in fortunes in the transfer window.
Erik ten Hag needs reinforcements to strengthen his squad, and Manchester United have already faced plenty of setbacks in their pursuit of top targets. After chasing Frenkie de Jong for around three months, the pursuit might be called off, although they are now closing in on signing Casemiro from Real Madrid.
While central midfield is considered the most crucial area to strengthen, ten Hag also wants a wide attacker to suit his style. Manchester United’s primary target is Antony, with the manager keen on reuniting with his former protege.
Ajax maintain their stance about keeping the winger in Amsterdam and have rejected a mammoth €80 million offer from Manchester United. It is unclear whether they want more money or refuse to sanction a sale in a window where they have already done plenty of business.
The departures of Sebastien Haller and Lisandro Martinez have depleted the overall quality of the team, and Ajax consider Antony a pivotal part of the squad. Few reports suggest Manchester United could prepare a new bid for the 22-year-old Brazilian attacker, but the Red Devils may switch their attention elsewhere.
The Manchester United board does not want to overspend on Antony and may look at alternatives. If they do get out of the Antony chase, the club could be expected to make an offer for Cody Gakpo, who could cost upwards of €40 million. Unlike Ajax, PSV are open to allowing Gakpo a move despite the winger extending his contract by another year until 2026.
The Eredivisie outfit will do business at the right price, far less than Antony could cost. The next few days will be crucial from Manchester United’s perspective, as the club is trying their best to get new players on board. Whether they make a new bid for the 22-year-old Brazilian attacker, Antony, remains a question, although the likelihood of a new wide man arriving looks strong.