 "Antony close to joining Real Betis as Manchester United have agreed a deal. Image: Reuters")
Manchester United forward Antony is set to join Real Betis after the La Liga club agreed to a transfer after initially pulling out due to a steep transfer fee . Betis have agreed on a £21.6 million package, which will include a 50% sell-on clause, The Athletic reported on Monday.
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After falling out of favour at Man United under manager Ruben Amorim, Antony revived his career at Betis last season as he scored nine goals and made five assists in 26 matches. He also helped Betis reach the UEFA Conference League final, which they lost to Chelsea.
United agree Antony fee with Betis
Betis manager Manuel Pellegrini was keen on taking Antony back to Betis, but the €4m shortfall in his £6m-a-year contract with Man United was proving to be a sticking point as the Spanish team was not willing to go higher with their offer. However, as per The Athletic, both clubs have managed to resolve the issue and United will not be required to make a termination payment to the Brazilian.
It’s also important to point out that Antony will be leaving United on a permanent transfer. He joined the club in 2022 from Ajax under coach Erik ten Hag for £81.3 million.
Martinez close to joining Man United
Meanwhile, Man United are close to bringing Argentine goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez to the club. Martinez wasn’t part of the Aston Villa squad that lost 3-0 to Crystal Palace on Sunday.
As per Manchester Evening News, Martinez has agreed personal terms with United and the 32-year-old would complete his move to Old Trafford on Monday. United are currently involved in regular discussions with Villa to complete the deal for Martinez.
Martinez has agreed personal terms on a switch to United and he is keen to push through a deal before the end of the transfer window. The Reds are thought to be in active talks with Villa for the 32-year-old Martinez.
Amorim has been using Altay Bayindir as his goalkeeper in the Premier League matches, while Andre Onana has been released to the bench. Altay Bayindir was guilty of making mistakes against Arsenal and Burnley.