Manchester United’s transfer business this summer is far from complete.
While the club have wrapped up key first-team signings, there remains a list of players they need to offload before the window shuts.
Antony is one of those players from the ‘Bomb Squad’.
Failure to find a new club may well lead to spending the season training with the youth academy squads or away from first team.
United’s plans to get those departures sealed could yet be shaped by developments abroad.
Especially with potential openings emerging at clubs who suddenly find themselves short of key personnel.
One such case involves La Liga side Real Betis, whose pre-season preparations have been dealt a major blow.
The club have confirmed via their official website, that midfielder Isco Alarcon suffered a new non-displaced fracture in the middle third of his left fibula during their final friendly against Malaga.
Medical tests revealed the injury is unrelated to his previous issue, which had been fully resolved.
The former Real Madrid midfielder will now undergo conservative treatment in the coming weeks.
His return will depend on how the recovery process unfolds.
However, the timing means Betis could be forced to adjust their attacking plans before the season begins.
That scenario could directly impact United’s efforts to sell Antony.
The Brazilian winger is understood to have his heart set on a move to Betis, having thrived there last season.
However the Spanish club have been struggling to propose a payment structure within their means.
With Isco sidelined for a lengthy period, Betis may be pushed into securing serious firepower to avoid struggling in attack.
Potentially bringing them closer to United’s asking price.
Other clubs remain interested in Antony, with Benfica having already made a recent approach for his signature.
Yet Betis would be a particularly appealing destination given his proven success in Seville colours.
United fans will certainly be hoping Antony’s departure comes before the new season.
The need to bring in funds to balance out fees spent on outgoings this summer, remains ever so important.
Time will tell as to whether Betis get their man – a potential setback which may well lead to a statement signing for the Spanish side.
