Manchester United agree to €100M signing of Antony from Ajax

Manchester United reached an agreement with Ajax for the transfer of Antony on Tuesday, subject to the winger passing a medical and finalizing personal terms for his move to Old Trafford.

Ajax will receive €95 million up front, with the overall fee potentially rising to €100 million after add-ons.

Antony is now the second most expensive signing in Manchester United's history. He ranks fourth in the Premier League's list of priciest incoming deals, below Jack Grealish to Manchester City in 2021, Romelu Lukaku to Chelsea in 2021, and Paul Pogba to United in 2016.

The 22-year-old scored 18 goals and assisted 14 times over 57 Eredivisie appearances after agreeing to join Ajax from Sao Paulo in February 2020. He scored on his debut in September of that year and quickly developed a reputation as an entertainer through his catalog of tricks and skills.

Antony was dismayed when Ajax reportedly turned down United's offers worth €80 million and €90 million this summer, saying his representatives had informed the Amsterdam outfit in February of his "desire to leave the club" to pursue his "dreams" abroad.

Now, the Brazilian star has his wish. He'll add to Erik ten Hag's wide attacking options, areas where Jadon Sancho, Anthony Elanga, Marcus Rashford, and Anthony Martial can already play. Antony's arrival could also push the unsettled Cristiano Ronaldo closer toward the exit door amid rumors that Napoli and Sporting CP - two teams that, unlike United, are competing in the Champions League this season - are interested in signing the 37-year-old forward.

Antony is United's second summer arrival from Ajax after Lisandro Martinez moved from the Johan Cruyff Arena for a fee that could reach €68 million after add-ons. Christian Eriksen also joined Ten Hag's side on a free transfer, while Casemiro and Tyrell Malacia collectively cost around €87 million after bonuses to sign from Real Madrid and Feyenoord, respectively.