Manchester United’s Antony starred while on loan at Real Betis in the second half of last season, scoring nine goals and registering five assists from 26 games.
The La Liga club want to extend the 25-year-old’s stay and have to find a new agreement with the Red Devils.
Earlier this month, Real Betis CEO Ramón Alarcón and sporting director Manu Fajardo travelled to England to hold talks with Manchester United.
On June 16th, we covered claims from Spain that the Andalusian club are working on an ambitious co-ownership plan to sign Antony.
Fajardo has now spoken to local reporters and Estadio Deportivo relay his comments. It was no surprise the Real Betis official was asked about the Manchester United player.
The sporting director reiterated the Brazil international wants to return to Real Betis. This gives the Spanish club optimism of securing a new agreement with Manchester United for a complex operation.
“We all have to be aware that this is a very complex operation. Given the player’s level and his recent career at Real Betis, it’s not an easy transaction,” he said.
“But, as long as Antony hasn’t committed to a third party, we, with the utmost humility, will play our cards to be able to opt for Antony.
“I insist, despite this being a complex operation, we will try to carry it out in different ways without compromising the club.
“In the end, the most important thing is also the sustainability of the club. We will try to be creative, as we have been in the past, so that Antony can be here. Today, the market is open, as I said before, it’s very dynamic, and we are part of that game.”
The director was honest in admitting that he’s not surprised the former Ajax man wants to continue at Real Betis.
“It doesn’t surprise me. And I’d like to take this opportunity once again to highlight the work that Real Betis does as a whole, across all departments. When a player arrives here and has such an immediate impact, that’s no coincidence,” Fajardo explained.
“It’s the result of the work, sacrifice, and seriousness of everyone involved on a day-to-day basis. Not only so that Antony can perform and give his best, but so that all the players who join Betis can reach their prime.
“I think what we’re achieving is a very beautiful thing. More and more great players are knocking on Real Betis’ door. More and more big clubs are willing to work hand in hand with Real Betis. And more and more players who once left here are more excited than ever to wear the Real Betis shirt again.”
Antony won’t be part of Ruben Amorim’s plans and Manchester United would like to get rid of him permanently.
