Man Utd face Antony NIGHTMARE as transfer on the verge of collapse

Real Betis are ready to walk away from the talks for Antony with Manchester United, while Atletico Madrid do not consider him a priority, contrary to claims in Spain.

The Red Devils are increasingly at risk of being stuck with an unwanted player. While the summer window is still open for a while, their attempts at offloading Antony have proved fruitless so far.

An agreement with Real Betis is no closer to being struck despite being in negotiations since the end of the season. Antony is keen to return to Seville after his successful loan spell, but his cost is difficult to shoulder for the Verdiblancos.

There have been discussions over potential ‘co-ownership’ of the player, or a loan with an obligation to buy, but Betis simply can’t match Man Utd’s demands, although there are suggestions that they will ultimately have to reduce their expectations as they become more desperate for funds.

Earlier this month, it emerged that Betis had started to consider Bayern winger Bryan Zaragoza as an alternative for Antony, and the LaLiga side could ultimately walk away from the talks with Man Utd, according to Diario de Sevilla.

Antony deal in danger, Atletico not moving yet

“From an economic standpoint, it has to fit within our parameters. A purchase depends on United’s price. A loan rather than a purchase is more feasible, given what United want to ask for,” president Angel Hato explained on Tuesday.

“We’re assuming, and Betis are making efforts, that he can arrive, but if he doesn’t, I don’t want it to be seen as a failure. It’s difficult to bring in a player of this quality and such a high financial compensation.”

Sporting director Manu Fajardo echoed this sentiment and added: “Our responsibility is to be prepared, and we have alternatives in case Antony doesn’t arrive. We’re calm.”

For now, Betis still remain hopeful of striking an agreement, with this belief stemming from the simple fact that Antony has so far rebuffed any and all approaches from other suitors.

Meanwhile, there have been reports in Spain that Atletico Madrid are ready to make their move for the Brazilian, but Sky Sports has now poured cold water on these claims. While the LaLiga giants are monitoring Antony’s situation, he is not a priority at present.

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