One of Manchester United’s major objectives this summer was to streamline the squad by offloading the deadwood. Marcus Rashford, Alejandro Garnacho, Jadon Sancho, Tyrell Malacia, and Antony were all surplus to requirements under Ruben Amorim.
Rashford spent the second half of last season on loan at Aston Villa, and joined Barcelona on a season-long loan in July this year. Sancho also moved to Villa Park this summer on loan.
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Garnacho, meanwhile, completed a permanent transfer to Chelsea on deadline day. Antony had joined Real Betis on loan in January, and returned to the Estadio Benito Villamarin this summer on a permanent deal.
Of the infamous “bomb squad”, only Malacia remains, although the club are apparently exploring options to move him on.
United have raised funds through player sales this summer
United have reportedly raised £89m from player exits this summer, while also saving £68m on wages. However, it now appears that they could be in line for further cash inflow from Antony’s departure.
The Red Devils agreed a deal worth an initial £19m plus a further £2.6m in add-ons with Real Betis for the 25 year old.
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The Premier League giants also retain a 50% sell-on clause in the deal, so they are entitled to a portion of any profit Real Betis make from his future sale.
According to ABC via The Manchester Evening News, the Andalusian club will pay United €4.5m over four years for the Brazilian forward as part of the arrangement.
However, the report adds that Betis will also have to pay United £434,000 if they win a major trophy or qualify for the Champions League. The clause will be applicable every year for the length of Antony’s current contract.
United could receive an additional £1.7m from Antony’s exit
As things stand, United stand to make an additional £1.7m from Antony’s departure. In such a scenario, the total transfer fee would rise to £23.4m.
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However, the clause will only come into effect if the conditions are met.
Antony was in fine form for Real Betis last season, registering nine goals and five assists from 26 outings across competitions. He helped the Andalusian club reach the UEFA Conference League final, which they lost to Chelsea.
Featured image Fran Santiago via Getty Images
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