INEOS draw up exit plans for failed Ten Hag signing as two Premier League clubs circle

Manchester United chiefs have drawn up plans to eventually facilitate Antony’s exit from the club, having conceded defeat in their hopes of him living up to his ludicrous price tag.

Indeed, the £82 million flop has been given ample opportunity to showcase his abilities at Old Trafford, yet – barring perhaps his first three matches – he is yet to produce a performance positive enough to stick with supporters.

Even Erik ten Hag has seemingly given up in his quest to help Antony. He granted the winger a starting spot week in, week out in his maiden campaign and for the beginning of his sophomore term. However, the significant lack of output now has the likes of Marcus Rashford, Alejandro Garnacho and Amad Diallo all ranking above him in the pecking order.

As a result, Antony has made only two appearances in the Premier League this season – one being a single one-minute cameo off the bench against Brighton and Hove Albion, followed by 26 minutes in the second half of the stalemate at Villa Park prior to the break.

INEOS plot Antony’s potential exit route

Per Chris Wheeler’s United Confidential column, the club are hoping to recoup around £40m from Antony’s prospective exit in the summer. It’s certainly a far-fetched fee at this moment in time, hence why they plan to send him out on loan in January to ideally increase his valuation.

The board aims for Antony to enjoy a triumphant loan spell, which would attract plenty of transfer interest in 2025. Should he wish to remain in the top flight, Newcastle United and Crystal Palace are said to be interested in taking on his services in the winter, with both sides adamant about bolstering their attacks.