Transfer News: Chelsea were interested in Antony long before Manchester United.
Chelsea’s search for a winger continues and the latest name to have emerged as a potential target is Ajax Amsterdam’s supremely talented winger Antony, who is reportedly a “key target” for arch-rivals Manchester United.
Antony had 22 goal involvements (12 goals + 10 assists) in 32 appearances for Ajax last term, helping the Dutch giants to an unprecedented 36th Eredivisie title. He now appears ready to take his game to the next level.
Since joining from Sao Paulo two years ago, Antony’s stock has only kept rising. The winger has earned nine caps for the Brazil senior national team since making his debut in October last year.
The links to Man Utd have been only natural, given new Red Devils boss Erik Ten Hag’s familiarity and fondness for the winger owing to their time together in Ajax. The Dutch giants are expected to not entertain any bids lower than £69m for Antony, but the Brazilian’s representatives have reportedly pleaded with club higher-ups to consider offers that may arrive on the table.
According to 90 min (h/t football.london), Chelsea have recently held talks with Antony’s entourage to discuss the possibility of a summer move.
It is believed that Tottenham Hotspur are also interested in the winger, so it remains to be seen how hard Chelsea are willing to push given that they have so many other targets in mind.
There is no denying the Brazilian’s talent and potential, and he clearly has an eye for goal and is very productive in the final third. However, Chelsea also have Manchester City’s Raheem Sterling in mind, who is believed to be more of a priority at this stage.
There’s Leeds United star and Antony’s senior compatriot Raphinha who is also on Chelsea’s radar, and is a Premier League proven option.
Due to their priorities elsewhere, it does seem unlikely at this stage that Chelsea will reach £69m deep into their pockets. It’s a possibility if other priority targets don’t materialise and if Antony is still available at that stage, but for now, it seems far-fetched.
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