Over the last few hours, all looked set for Antony to be moving permanently to Real Betis, as the LaLiga side have kept him firmly in their sights following his return from loan.
Whilst with the Spanish club, Antony scored nine goals and five assists in 26 appearances, nearly matching his record for United in 96 games of only three more goals, despite the 70 extra games.
As such, the winger truly found his form again, making it no surprise that Betis were looking to retain their star man, despite the financial struggles they would face in signing him.
An offer of around £21.6 million (€25 million) for 50% ownership of the winger was tabled to United and reportedly agreed, with United holding a 50% sell-on clause for any profit of a future sale.
However, the deal now appears to have collapsed with multiple reports explaining the breakdown in negotiations.
Adam Crafton of The Athletic has reported the reduction of Antony’s salary is proving to be a source of tension in the deal, with his £6 million per year too much for the LaLiga side to take on.
Betis’ offer would see him take a £3.5 million shortfall, which the Brazilian is keen to make up somehow in the deal.
The Spanish side is refusing to spend any more on the move or Antony’s wages, as confirmed by Simon Stone, with the BBC reported going so far as to say that the side have withdrawn their offer.
However, United are hoping that negotiations will continue and the Spanish side will return for ongoing discussions to get the move across the line before the end of deadline day.
Real Betis sources saying the club has withdrawn its offer for Antony. Sources say Betis cannot afford a transfer fee, nor the amounts the player is supposed to receive.
— Simon Stone (@sistoney67) August 29, 2025
