Antony move from Man Utd to Real Betis completed in £21.5m deal

Manchester United have officially confirmed that winger Antony has completed a permanent transfer to Spanish side Real Betis.

In a statement, the club announced: “Antony has moved to Real Betis in a permanent transfer. We thank Antony for his efforts during his time as a Red and wish him the best of luck for the future.”

The deal, reported to be worth around £21.5 million including bonuses, represents a significant financial loss for United, who signed the Brazilian for close to £85 million from Ajax in 2022.

However, United have inserted a 50% sell-on clause, ensuring they would benefit should Betis decide to move him on in the future.

Antony’s departure comes after a disappointing spell in Manchester. He struggled to deliver consistent performances across his three seasons at Old Trafford.

His time was also disrupted by injuries and off-field issues that prevented him from establishing himself as a regular starter.

Last season’s loan to Betis proved a turning point. The 25-year-old rediscovered form in Spain, scoring 10 goals and registering five assists in 40 appearances across all competitions.

His performances made him a key figure under Manuel Pellegrini, helping Betis secure European qualification and prompting the club to push for a permanent deal.

For United, the transfer marks both the closure of a high-profile chapter and the chance to reset their attacking options.

With the new arrivals of Benjamin Sesko, Bryan Mbeumo and Cunha, manager Rúben Amorim now has more flexibility as he shapes his squad for the future.

Betis, meanwhile, view Antony as a marquee signing. With Isco currently sidelined through injury, the Brazilian is expected to step straight into a creative role and provide the flair and directness that made him such an exciting prospect when he first arrived in Europe.

United's statement in full: "Manchester United and Real Betis have reached an agreement for the permanent transfer of Antony, subject to international clearance and registration.

"The Brazil international has rejoined the club where he spent the second part of last season on a loan basis, scoring nine times in 26 games across all competitions.

"He helped the Seville-based outfit reach the UEFA Conference League final, supplying four goals and three assists, although Chelsea lifted the trophy in Wroclaw.

"Antony signed for United from Ajax in the summer of 2022 and made a total of 96 appearances for the club, scoring 12 goals.

"He performed well in the Carabao Cup final victory over Newcastle United that landed a trophy for Erik ten Hag's team and was also part of the squad that lifted the Emirates FA Cup in the following season, beating Manchester City 2-1 at Wembley in the final.

The South American's final outing for the Reds came in January of this year, when he appeared as a substitute during a Premier League defeat to Brighton & Hove Albion at Old Trafford.

Everybody at the club would like to wish Antony the very best of luck for the future.