Al Nassr Considering a Move for Manchester United’s £86 Million Flop, Antony After Failing to Sign Barcelona’s Raphinha
Al Nassr is keen to add to its squad, with the right-wing being a priority. Initially, the Saudi Pro League side targeted Barcelona’s Raphinha and was prepared to pay over the top to get their man. However, with the possibility of the signing reducing significantly, Al Nassr is looking at alternatives, with Antony being among the ones being considered.
Signing Antony will see the Brazilian reunite with Cristiano Ronaldo. The pair briefly played in the 2022-23 season before Ronaldo left after his relationship with manager Eric Ten Hag soured. At United, Antony has only registered 16 goal involvements in 86 appearances. The view at Old Trafford is that the club is ready to cash out should a decent offer come in.
A deal for Antony could possibly be a loan move with the option to buy at the end of the deal. Antony is on £100,000 weekly wages and has three years left on his contract. With little interest from top European clubs, Al Nassr will be under no pressure to offer Manchester United a huge transfer fee, leaving the loan option as the most viable one. However, Al Nassr would need to cover a large chunk, if not all, of his wages for the duration of the loan.
At United, competition in Antony’s position is heated. Amad Diallo finished the 2023-24 season in form and has featured prominently during Manchester United’s pre-season tour in the United States. Argentine Alejandro Garnacho, who plays on both wings, will also be expected to be ahead of Antony in the pecking order.
A temporary move to Al Nassr may be just what Antony needs to kickstart his career, given that he’s not expected to play a lot of games in the upcoming 2024-25 season.
