Manchester United weighing up new bid for Ajax winger Antony

Manchester United are considering a making second offer for Ajax winger Antony, according to The Athletic reporter Laurie Whitwell.

The Red Devils, who have come alive late on in the transfer window, had submitted an offer of €80million for the Brazilian on Wednesday but saw it rebuffed.

Erik ten Hag is seeking reinforcements for his underperforming side before the transfer window closes at the end of the month and is keen to be reunited with his former player.

Ajax may be playing hardball, but they are looking to make a massive profit for a player who only cost them around €16m and will find it hard to turn down a bid of around €100m.

However, after seeing their first offer rejected, the Old Trafford hierarchy are not entirely convinced about matching Ajax’s valuation.

Ajax have already let Lisandro Martinez join United this summer but are adamant about keeping their exciting Brazilian. 

The 22-year-old moved to the Johan Cruijff Arena from Sao Paulo in 2020 and hit double figures in goal contributions in his first season with the Amsterdam side with ten goals and ten assists in 48 appearances. 

He followed it up with 12 goals and ten assists in 33 appearances last season as Ajax raced to the Eredivisie crown.

Antony has been a standout performer for de Godenzonen. However, United are reluctant to go higher than their initial offer and are also exploring a deal for PSV Eindhoven winger Cody Gakpo.

Gakpo had signed a contract extension with PSV until 2026, but the deal included an understanding between both parties that if a reasonable offer were to arrive, PSV would consider it.

United view Gakpo as a more likely and affordable option than Antony. 

United are stepping up their transfer business this summer after losing their opening two games of the season.

Ten Hag has already sorted his midfield problems by signing Casemiro from the Spanish champions Real Madrid.