Man Utd’s “Hefty Price Tag” Makes Betis Deal Unlikely | OneFootball

Antony’s Real Betis Rise Sparks Man Utd Transfer Battle

Interest building across Europe

Antony’s resurgence at Real Betis has ignited a multi-club chase for the Brazilian winger, with Manchester United now weighing up offers ahead of the summer window. The 24-year-old, on loan in Seville since January, has delivered an explosive second half of the campaign, prompting renewed interest not only from Betis but from a growing queue of European suitors.

The excitement around Antony at Estadio Benito Villamarín is palpable. He’s become something of a cult hero in Andalusia—no small feat for a short-term loanee. Betis Sporting Director Manu Fajardo has spoken openly about the club’s desire to retain him beyond this season: “We would love to hang onto Antony, and are in conversations to do so.”

Antony, for his part, is clearly enjoying life in Spain. “I’m very happy at Betis,” he admitted, and his performances back up that sentiment.

Man Utd open to permanent sale

However, keeping Antony in green and white won’t be straightforward. Manchester United are understood to be leaning towards a permanent sale rather than a second loan. The Premier League side are seeking a fee in the region of €40–50 million and see Antony as a valuable asset to generate funds for reinvestment under their new sporting strategy.

Managerial plans at Old Trafford suggest that Ruben Amorim, widely expected to take over the United dugout this summer, does not have Antony in his long-term vision. With the Red Devils looking to trim the squad and bolster other areas, Antony’s departure appears more likely than ever.

Betis, who are currently contributing only a fraction of his wages, would ideally extend his loan deal—but that scenario hinges on Manchester United’s stance softening, which at this stage appears unlikely.

Atletico Madrid and Villarreal monitor developments

La Liga rivals are paying close attention. Atletico Madrid have reportedly enquired about Antony’s situation and are expected to follow up with formal discussions. Sources indicate Los Rojiblancos have made contact with the player’s representatives and are gathering information ahead of potential negotiations.

While Atleti also have an eye on fellow United winger Alejandro Garnacho, the financial outlay required for that move may steer them towards Antony instead.

Villarreal, meanwhile, remain in contention for a top-four finish and have also entered the fray. Should they clinch Champions League football, the Yellow Submarine would be well-positioned to rival Betis in their pursuit of the winger.

Juventus emerge as serious contenders

Outside of Spain, Juventus have now registered interest in Antony, adding another dimension to what is quickly becoming a high-stakes transfer tussle. The Serie A outfit have been tracking his performances closely and are said to admire his dynamism and flair. While not yet at the negotiating table, Juventus are one of the few clubs with the financial muscle to compete directly with Atletico Madrid.

That could prove decisive, particularly if Betis and Villarreal fall short of Champions League qualification.

Antony’s numbers doing the talking

Antony’s contribution at Betis has been nothing short of spectacular. In 22 appearances, he has recorded eight goals and five assists, with his crowning moment coming in the semi-final of the UEFA Europa Conference League, where he delivered two goals and an assist against Fiorentina.

He’ll have one final opportunity to make his mark, with Real Betis preparing to face Chelsea in the Conference League final. Should he play a decisive role in that encounter, it may well be the perfect swansong to a brief but electrifying spell in Spain.

Whether that will be enough to convince Betis—or indeed any of his suitors—to meet United’s valuation remains the central question heading into the summer.