Manchester United are reportedly bracing themselves for a summer approach from Atletico Madrid, who’ve set their sights on two available Reds.
The La Liga giants are said to be sizing up a double swoop for both Antony and Alejandro Garnacho amid plans to fully revitalise Diego Simeone’s squad in the upcoming transfer window.
That’s according to TBR Football, which claims United have, in turn, placed a £86 million price tag on the pair: £51m for Garnacho and £34m for Antony.
Back in 2020, the Argentine youngster completed a £420,000 move from Atletico’s academy to Carrington, meaning United stand to make a substantial profit on a player who boasts 135 senior appearances – and 45 goal contributions – at 20 years old.
There is reportedly an ‘acceptance’ that he will depart Old Trafford at the end of the season, having also been subject to interest from Napoli and Chelsea in January.
Antony and Garnacho etch their names on Simeone’s shortlist
As for his senior counterpart, Antony has enjoyed a new lease of life in Spain, seemingly finding his level after two-and-a-half failed seasons in England.
He has recorded four goals and four assists in 15 appearances for Real Betis, becoming an instant hit with their supporters – and his teammates, as Isco recently joked the club should crowdfund to sanction his arrival permanently when his loan comes to an end.
There was no buy option included in the terms set by United, meaning he will return to Manchester upon the culmination of the season. From there, it remains to be seen where his future lies – potentially with Atletico.
The proposed £86m deal means the Reds will take a substantial loss on the ludicrous £82m they forked out for Antony in 2022, although it would provide a much-needed cash injection to replace the forwards with more suitable alternatives.
