Manchester United have reportedly been handed a boost in their pursuit of Ajax winger Antony this summer.
While Erik ten Hag has confirmed that the Red Devils are looking to sign a holding midfielder this summer, it is thought that the Dutchman is also keen to bolster his options in attack, with Antony identified as one of his top targets.
According to The Mirror, Ajax are closing in on the signing of Porto winger Francisco Conceicao, with the 19-year-old poised to join the Dutch giants on a permanent deal.
The arrival of Conceicao – who like Antony primarily operates as a right-sided winger – could therefore allow Antony to make his big-money move to Old Trafford.
The report adds that Antony is keen to reunite with Ten Hag at Man United this summer, while the Dutch boss believes that the Brazilian would fit perfectly into his 'ideal' starting lineup.
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It is understood that United would need to fork out €80m (£67.8m) if they wish to sign the winger, who still has three years remaining on his contract at the Amsterdam ArenA.
The Red Devils could also face competition from Premier League rivals Chelsea and Liverpool to land Antony, with both clubs allegedly looking to hijack his potential switch to Old Trafford.
Despite the arrival of Raheem Sterling at Stamford Bridge, Blues boss Thomas Tuchel is believed to be looking to add more firepower to his attack, after missing out on Ousmane Dembele and Raphinha, who will both be plying their trade at Barcelona.
Liverpool, meanwhile, have allegedly held talks with Antony's representatives over a possible move to Anfield, although it remains to be seen whether the Reds would be prepared to meet Ajax's asking price having already spent in excess of £70m on new recruits this summer, including striker Darwin Nunez.
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Antony enjoyed a successful 2021-22 campaign with Ajax, scoring 12 goals and registering 10 assists in 32 appearances across all competitions.
The winger missed the last eight games of the season, however, due to an ankle injury and has not trained with the rest of Ajax's first-team squad in pre-season as he continues his individual rehabilitation program.
Despite strong interest in his services, new Ajax head coach Alfred Schreuder – who has replaced Ten Hag this summer – insists that he is keen to see the winger remain in Amsterdam.
Speaking to ESPN earlier this month, the 49-year-old said: "It is clear that we want to keep that boy. I think he still has a contract until 2025. I really want to work with him; he knows that, and the club knows that too."
Man United have already reached an agreement with Ajax to sign defender Lisandro Martinez, while they have also completed the signings of left-back Tyrell Malacia and Christian Eriksen.
Oliver Thomas
