Ajax expects Manchester United to make a second approach for Antony and is preparing for his future exit by seeking former playmaker Hakim Ziyech, according to 90min.
Since Erik ten Hag came over at Old Trafford, Antony has been Erik ten Hag’s first choice offensive target, but Ajax’s demand for a club-record cost of £78 million has put United on hold. The Red Devils’ sluggish start to the season, though, has forced them to reconsider their transfer strategy, and Antony remains the man they are anxious to sign up front.
United’s latest offer for Anthony is £10m below the asking price from Ajax, but sources confirmed at 90 minutes that the Eredivisie giants are hoping for an improved offer. Anthony, who was mysteriously absent from Friday’s training, had long hoped to join United’s Ten Hug – the Brazilian had been frustrated with Ajax’s attitude towards a transfer since the 90th minute in July. Revealed – and he’s believed to be ready to push the deal now… to agree.
Ajax are making plans to replace Antony as his exit seems more imminent, and insiders have revealed to 90min that out-of-favour Chelsea playmaker Hakim Ziyech is being lined up for a return to Amsterdam. Thomas Tuchel has told the 29-year-old, nicknamed as ‘The Wizard’ during his four-year time at Ajax between 2016 and 2020, that he may leave Stamford Bridge. He was previously linked with AC Milan.
However, Ajax are now attempting to launch a loan deal for Ziyech, which might pave the way for Antony to eventually join United. Even if Antony does sign, 90min believes that United do not aim to bring in just one attacker, implying that PSV Eindhoven’s Cody Gakpo and Chelsea’s Christian Pulisic would not be overlooked.