ANTONY is closing in on a move away from Manchester United this month, according to reports.
After a good start at the club, Antony has struggled to recapture his best form since his successful £86m move from Ajax in 2022.
Due to his poor form, the wing attacker fell out of favor under Erik ten Hag last season.
That trend continued this season before Ten Hag was replaced by Ruben Amorim, although he has still failed to make a real impact.
But now it appears the 24-year-old is finally closing in on an escape from his Theater of Dreams nightmare, summed up by his horror miss against Southampton on Thursday.
According to Fabrizio Romano, Antony is close to completing a transfer to join Real Betis on loan until the end of the season, with final details to be discussed after the player gives the green light to the deal.
Obviously there is NO option to buy in the deal.
In addition, the Red Devils will also pay part of his wages.
However, this was not a clause that fans were happy with, given the desperate need to sell before any new recruits can come in as part of the next rebuilding project being carried out by Amorim.
One fan said on social media: “Man United will also cover part of the salary. They really want him to leave.”
A second said: “Draining our squad and not signing any replacements.”
Another said: “We better find a replacement because I don't understand why we are doing a deal like this. No option to buy and also pay part of his salary while he plays for another club.”
A fourth added: “These no-option-to-purchase loan deals are absolutely useless.”
Many other fans also hoped that Antony could find some form at the Spanish club.
His wages are believed to be £200,000 per week, making him the club's fifth highest paid player.
Antony's contract expires in 2027 and includes an option for a further year.
He scored just twelve times and provided five assists in 95 games for the Red Devils.
In a similar deal, United will also cover part of Jadon Sancho's wages while he is on loan at Chelsea, although a clause in the deal will see the Blues activate a £25m purchase option if they finish above 14th.
United will reportedly cover at least £100,000 of Sancho's total wage costs, although the amount they will cover in Antony's case is not yet clear.
Amid the rumors, Antony was named on the bench for the Man Utd vs. Brighton match.
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