Manchester United completes Antony’s transfer from Ajax for £86 million

New Delhi: Manchester United released a statement saying that the Brazilian footballer Antony has completed the transfer from Ajax. The player has signed a contract until 2027, with the option of an additional year. After the deal, Antony will reunite with his ex-Ajax manager Erik ten Hag, who is currently in the United.

Reportedly, it was a £86 million deal, the third most expensive for the Red Devils after Paul Pogba (£93.3m) and Romelu Lukaku (£90m). According to some reports, Antony also expressed his view to leave Ajax while manager Alfred Schreuder called it ‘weird’ and was unhappy with the move.

While signing the deal, Antony said that it was an incredible moment for his career. He added, “Playing under Erik ten Hag at Ajax was perfect for me and my development. His style of football and coaching brings out the best in me, and I am excited by what he has told me about his plans and ambitions in Manchester.” He also thanked his coaches and family, and while talking about his former club, he said the time at Ajax was fantastic and he will be grateful for the trust they put in.

The forward has 31 goals and 27 assists in 134 club appearances for Ajax and Sao Paulo, and two goals and two assists in nine senior appearances for Brazil. Apart from that, he has won two Eredivisie titles and a gold medal in the 2020 Summer Olympics.

John Murtough, Manchester United Football Director, called Antony one of the most exciting young talents in European football. Murtogh also mentioned that Antony is the right fit for the ‘dynamic’ team that Erik is building.

As United signed Antony from Ajax, this led to an increase in the speculations around Ronaldo’s future in the club. However, Erik ten Hag made it clear that Ronaldo is not leaving the club. He said, “(It is) clear, of course. We need quality players. You need more to cover all the games to keep the consistency going. That is what we strive for.”