Al-Nassr Target Antony as Man Utd Open to Sale

According to a source, Manchester United are willing to let Antony depart this summer, with Saudi Arabian club Al-Nassr settling on the Brazilian winger as their “top target”.

According to Pete O’Rourke (Football Insider), the Saudi Pro League team “switched their attention” to Antony after a failed chase of Barcelona winger Raphinha.

Last year, the Public Investment Fund (PIF) purchased controlling stakes in the Pro League’s ‘big four’ sides – Al-Ittihad, Al-Ahli, Al-Hilal, and Al-Nassr – making Saudi Arabia a hotspot for transfer activity.

Cristiano Ronaldo was one of the first and most well-known names to relocate to the Middle East to lead the fledgling league, joining Al-Nassr from Manchester United under rather contentious circumstances.

The former Real Madrid and Juventus forward was later followed by other stars nearing the end of their careers, like N’Golo Kante, Karim Benzema, and even Jordan Henderson, who were offered exorbitant sums to enjoy an early retirement in the sunshine.

Antony now appears to be following in Ronaldo’s footsteps, leaving Old Trafford for a big-money move to Al-Nassr, as part of the Pro League’s fresh approach to the transfer market.

Also Read: Manchester United’s Interest Looms as Barcelona Midfielder Pedri Is Put Up for Sale

Saudi Club Eyes Younger Talent like Antony

Saudi teams are apparently seeking younger stars this summer as the PIF tries to attract players in or around their prime years, as opposed to the elder generation of signings last year.

From United’s standpoint, this strategic shift has hampered their attempts to transfer Casemiro this summer, as Saudi interest in the Brazilian midfielder has waned despite his fame and position in global sport.

If the 32-year-old had been sold to the Saudi Pro League last summer, the Red Devils would have received a high compensation for his services. Now it appears they will be stuck with him for at least another year.

However, Old Trafford may still benefit from the Pro League riches as Al-Nassr chases Antony, a player who has never adjusted to the demands of English football since his £86 million move from Antony two summers ago.

According to O’Rourke, United executives advised the 24-year-old to “find a new club” last month, but Europe’s elite – the only clubs that could pay Antony’s price – are unlikely to be interested in a player who has played so poorly since moving to England.

Nonetheless, the Brazilian remains a household figure in football, albeit not always for the right reasons, having won two trophies in two years at Old Trafford and representing his country on several occasions. He’s 24 and, ostensibly, ready to enter his prime.

This fits well with the Saudi Pro League’s new approach and explains why Al-Nassr is pressing a move for the former Ajax player.

United may even consider a loan deal for Antony if his wages are fully covered, providing both clubs with a potential win-win solution.