Antony not included in Ajax squared as transfer plans to Man Utd age closer

Antony has been left out of Ajax’s matchday squad for Sunday’s Eredivisie match against Sparta Rotterdam, with Manchester United exploring a second bid for the 22-year-old.

The Ajax board is said to be debating Antony’s potential fee, although it is expected that they would demand €100 million (£84.8 million) for the Brazilian winger.

United rekindled their interest in Antony, according to The Athletic, but their bid of €80 million (£67.6 million) was rejected on Wednesday.

Amid rumors that United might be preparing another bid, transfer guru Fabrizio Romano claimed late last night that:

“Understand Antony will NOT be part of Ajax XI vs Sparta Rotterdam on Sunday. Brazilian star didn’t train with the group yesterday and today.

“Antony wants Manchester United and hopes for Ajax to negotiate with Man Utd when the new bid will be submitted.

This morning, Italian journalist Rudy Galetti tweeted:

“Even yesterday, contacts between #Antony’s agent and #MUFC continued.

“The player only wants to join #ManUTD: #Ajax would seem convinced to let him go with the right offer.

“New contact is expected soon also between the clubs.”

Meanwhile, hit-and-miss reporter Duncan Castles has claimed in The Times that “Ajax expect Manchester United to increase their offer for their Brazil forward Antony to €100 million (£84.9 million)”.

Castles further stated that the player has refused to commit his future to Ajax, as reported by De Telegraaf. “I’m afraid I can’t [commit].” Now I’m concentrating on football and have delegated all other responsibilities to my agents and my brother. They will advise me on the best course of action.”

All of this bodes well for United, who are also interested in another Eredivisie winger, Cody Gakpo. Most pundits felt that left-sided Gakpo was being lined up as a replacement for right-sided Antony, but there are now reports that both players could be purchased.