Real Betis rushing to sign Antony, but United demand a definitive sale for €35 million

Antony, the 25-year-old Brazilian forward, is at the heart of intense negotiations between Real Betis and Manchester United in the final days of the August 2025 transfer window, closing on September 1. After a successful loan at the Spanish club last season, where he scored nine goals and provided five assists in 26 matches, the player expressed his desire to return to Seville, where he regained confidence and prominence. Betis, buoyed by his strong performance and their qualification for the Europa League, seeks a solution to sign him permanently but faces resistance from United, who demand around €35 million to release him. Financial barriers and LaLiga’s strict regulations complicate the deal, while the tight deadline pressures both sides.

The Brazilian, currently training separately from Manchester United’s main squad under Rúben Amorim, made it clear he prefers a return to the Benito Villamarín, where he was pivotal in the campaign that took Betis to the Conference League final. However, the situation remains unresolved, with United focused on recouping part of the €95 million investment made in 2022.

• Key negotiation points:
• Real Betis proposes partial rights purchase for €20 million.
• Manchester United insists on a permanent €35 million sale.
• Antony rejects offers from Brazilian and Saudi clubs.
• Transfer window closes on September 1, 2025.

Negotiations progress with financial hurdles

Real Betis has intensified efforts to bring Antony back after his standout performance in the 2024-25 season. The Spanish club, which finished sixth in LaLiga and secured a Europa League spot, sees the Brazilian as a strategic addition for continental competitions. During his loan, Antony shone with consistent performances, including decisive goals against Fiorentina in the Conference League semifinal. His adaptation to Manuel Pellegrini’s style, which emphasizes possession and quick transitions, earned praise from fans and teammates.

However, negotiations are stalled by Manchester United’s financial demands. The English club, under pressure from Premier League fair play rules, aims to minimize losses on the player, signed for €95 million from Ajax in 2022. Betis’ proposal to buy 50% of his economic rights for €20 million was rejected, as United prioritizes a permanent sale to free up funds and payroll space.

Betis’ management, aware of LaLiga’s salary cap constraints, is exploring alternatives, such as a new loan with a mandatory purchase option. This option, however, is unappealing to United, who have already invested in new forwards like Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo, reducing Antony’s chances of reintegration into the squad.

Antony’s impact at Real Betis

Antony’s stint at Real Betis last season marked a turning point in his career. After struggling at Manchester United, where he scored just 12 goals in 96 matches, the Brazilian found a supportive environment in Spain to rebuild his confidence. Under Pellegrini, he became a regular starter, contributing directly to the campaign that took Betis to the Conference League final and secured Europa League qualification.

• Antony’s standout moments at Betis:
• Free-kick goal against Fiorentina in the Conference League semifinal.
• Decisive assist for Abde Ezzalzouli in the same match.
• Named LaLiga Player of the Month in February 2025.
• Averaged 0.53 goal involvements per game (14 in 26 matches).

His debut against Athletic Bilbao was a milestone, earning him man-of-the-match honors. His chemistry with teammates like Isco and connection with fans, who dubbed him a “hero,” reinforce Betis’ desire to keep him. The number 7 shirt, worn by Antony last season, remains reserved, signaling the club’s optimism.

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Barriers imposed by Manchester United

Manchester United, under pressure to balance their finances, maintains a rigid stance in negotiations. The club has invested around €200 million in attacking reinforcements, including Benjamin Sesko, Matheus Cunha, and Bryan Mbeumo, making Antony’s stay unlikely. Rúben Amorim, United’s manager, has stated that the Brazilian does not fit his tactical setup, which demands greater intensity and versatility from wingers.

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The €35 million demand is a significant hurdle for Betis, which operates with a tighter budget than LaLiga rivals like Atlético Madrid and Villarreal, both also interested in the player. A new loan covering Antony’s full salary was proposed, but United resists, preferring a definitive solution to avoid future complications.

• Factors complicating the deal:
• United seeks €35 million to avoid financial losses.
• Betis faces LaLiga salary cap restrictions.
• Competition from clubs like Atlético Madrid and Villarreal.
• Antony’s contract with United runs until 2027.

Fan reaction and teammate support

Real Betis fans showed immense affection for Antony during his loan spell. After the Conference League semifinal, banners and chants at the Benito Villamarín celebrated the Brazilian, who reciprocated the love in interviews, stating that “Seville became his home.” Isco and Joaquín, iconic club figures, publicly expressed their desire for him to stay, with captain Isco praising his “commitment and quality on the pitch.”

On social media, fan campaigns call for Antony’s return with hashtags and supportive messages. Betis’ management, sensitive to his popularity, reserved the number 7 shirt and remains optimistic despite financial challenges. Antony’s willingness to accept a salary reduction to facilitate the deal underscores his commitment to the Spanish club.

Competitive landscape and competition

With a guaranteed Europa League spot for 2025-26, Real Betis is planning a competitive squad to face top opponents. Antony, with experience in European competitions from Ajax and Manchester United, is seen as a key piece in Pellegrini’s setup. His versatility, playing as a winger or in more central roles, aligns with the Chilean manager’s style, which prioritizes possession and attacking creativity.

However, competition from other European clubs complicates matters. Villarreal, which could secure a Champions League spot, and Atlético Madrid, seeking attacking reinforcements, are monitoring Antony’s situation. These clubs offer greater visibility and larger budgets, potentially attracting the player if Betis’ negotiations falter.

• Antony’s advantages for Betis in the Europa League:
• Proven experience in European competitions with Ajax and United.
• Goals and assists in key Conference League matches.
• Adaptation to Pellegrini’s tactical style.
• Fan popularity, boosting stadium engagement.

Tight deadline and outlook

With the transfer window closing on September 1, Real Betis is racing against time to reach an agreement with Manchester United. The Spanish club is exploring creative solutions, such as including resale clauses or performance bonuses, to meet United’s demands without straining their budget. Antony remains committed to Betis, rejecting offers from clubs like Al Nassr, São Paulo, and Botafogo.

The Brazilian’s future remains uncertain. If negotiations fail, he could face a spell on United’s bench or a transfer to another club in the window’s final days. Betis’ determination and Antony’s desire to return to Seville keep hopes alive, but the deal’s success hinges on both clubs’ flexibility.