‘Verbal agreement exists’: Sky confirm Utd are clarifying ‘final formalities’ in attacker’s deal



Manchester United could have closed their first substantial piece of transfer business by the end of the day.

Indeed, the Red Devils have endured an overtly quiet window up to this stage, but if the latest reports are anything to go by, they’re in line for a hectic end to the month.

Both Alejandro Garnacho and Marcus Rashford face uncertain futures, the former being at the centre of a transfer tug-of-war between Chelsea and Napoli and the latter struggling to find a concrete suitor amid his exile from Ruben Amorim’s squad.

Barcelona are among a host of clubs to have established their interest in the England international, though they face a race against time to free up space on the wage bill if they want to add another forward to their ranks by the February 3 deadline.

Antony edges closer to La Liga switch

Antony will be looking to secure increased game time with the 12th-placed La Liga outfit. (Photo by Michael Regan/Getty Images)

Elsewhere, United are preparing to finally cut their losses with Antony – albeit only temporarily. He is on the verge of signing for Real Betis for the remainder of the campaign after failing to make a name for himself under the new boss.

The Brazilian has yet to make a Premier League start in 2024/2025 and, since Amorim took the reins, has featured for a total of 252 minutes across nine appearances in all competitions. He has been an unused substitute for five games.

Shared on Sky Sports’ live transfer blog this afternoon, Melissa Reddy told supporters: “Manchester United winger Antony’s loan to Real Betis is close to completion.

“A verbal agreement exists with no option or obligation included in the deal, and the final formalities are being dealt with before he undertakes a medical.”

Alas, Antony will return to Old Trafford in the summer and either be sold permanently or attempt to revive his currently stagnant United career.