In a dramatic twist in the transfer market, Newcastle United are reportedly preparing to make a move for Manchester United winger Antony during the January transfer window. The Brazilian has had a challenging time since his high-profile transfer from Ajax to Manchester United, which cost the Red Devils £80m.
Antony’s stint at Old Trafford has been far from smooth. Over the course of his two full seasons with Manchester United, he has managed to score just 11 goals, a stark contrast to the expectations set upon his arrival. Last season was particularly tough, as Antony netted only once in the Premier League and provided just one assist, contributing to a disappointing 8th-place finish for Erik ten Hag’s side. This season has started similarly, with Antony making just one appearance and being left out of two games entirely.
Amid mounting speculation about Antony’s future, Newcastle United have emerged as a potential suitor. The Magpies are reportedly keen on strengthening their right-wing position and had their eyes on Anthony Elanga during the summer transfer window. However, with that deal falling through on deadline day, Newcastle are now turning their attention to Antony.
Sources suggest that Manchester United are willing to let Antony go for £40m—half of what they initially paid for him in 2022. This proposed fee could be a strategic move by the Red Devils to recoup some funds and potentially reinvest in their squad. For Newcastle, this could be a valuable opportunity to add Premier League experience and a proven attacker to their ranks.
Eddie Howe’s team will face Manchester United at Old Trafford for their final game of 2024, with the return fixture scheduled for April at St James’ Park. The potential move for Antony is likely to be a hot topic of discussion as both sides prepare for these crucial encounters.Newcastle United’s interest in Antony marks an intriguing development in the upcoming January transfer window. Antony, who joined Manchester United in 2022 for a substantial £80 million from Ajax, has struggled to make the desired impact at Old Trafford. His form over the past two seasons has been underwhelming, with only 11 goals to his name and a particularly challenging last season that saw him score just once and provide a single assist in the Premier League.
This underperformance, coupled with Manchester United’s disappointing 8th-place finish, has led to speculation regarding his future at the club. With the current season also starting poorly for the Brazilian winger—only one appearance so far and being excluded from the squad in two games—Manchester United may be looking to offload Antony to rebalance their squad.
Newcastle United, seeking to bolster their right-wing options after a failed attempt to sign Anthony Elanga during the summer, see Antony as a viable target. Reports suggest that Manchester United would be willing to part ways with the Brazilian for £40 million—significantly lower than the initial investment made two years ago. This price drop could provide Newcastle with a chance to acquire a player with Premier League experience at a reduced cost, while Manchester United could use the funds to reinvest in their squad.
If the deal materializes, it could add an extra layer of intrigue to the upcoming fixtures between the two clubs. Newcastle’s visit to Old Trafford in late December and Manchester United’s trip to St James’ Park in April could be pivotal matches, especially if Antony ends up switching allegiances. For both clubs, this move could be a significant turning point in their respective seasons.
