Red Devils Pave Way for Antony's Permanent Move with Betis Set to Sell Johnny Cardoso

Manchester United are edging closer to finalizing a deal for Antony after Real Betis agreed to sell Johnny Cardoso to Atletico Madrid, according to reports. The Spanish club is said to receive a considerable boost in their pursuit of Antony, with Cardoso's transfer fee set to provide much-needed resources for a potential reunion.

In a development that could significantly impact United's transfer market maneuvers, Betis and Antony reportedly share a mutual desire to reunite next season. The Seville-based outfit had previously expressed reservations about a permanent deal due to financial constraints, but Atletico Madrid's agreement to pay £26 million for Cardoso could change that.

The 23-year-old midfielder has already accepted a five-year contract proposal from Atletico, as reported by Fabrizio Romano on June 25. Once the transfer details are finalized, Betis will pocket the funds generated from Cardoso's departure to boost their coffers for the Antony deal.

United are keen on cashing in on Antony, who rejuvenated his career in Spain during the second half of last season. He scored nine goals and registered five assists in 26 appearances for Betis, notching up just three fewer goal contributions than he managed in 96 games for the Red Devils since his £86 million move from Ajax in 2022.

The funds from Antony's sale will be crucial for United, as they aim to finance the final installment of Ruben Amorim's attacking shake-up in his first summer transfer window at the helm. Amorim has already added Matheus Cunha to his ranks, and another top-flight striker is expected to follow suit before the pre-season begins on July 7.

United are on the verge of signing Brentford forward Bryan Mbeumo, who scored 20 goals in the Premier League last term. Brentford initially rejected an offer of £45 million plus £10 million in add-ons, but United have reportedly submitted a second offer that surpasses the Bees' £60 million valuation.

Amorim is reportedly seeking another striker to complement his new-look front three, with Rasmus Hojlund managing just four league goals last season. Antony, along with Marcus Rashford, Alejandro Garnacho, and Jadon Sancho, are among the players United are willing to sell to fund such a move.

It is now up to Betis whether they commit the cash generated from Cardoso's departure to facilitate Antony's return. The M16 giants are reportedly willing to accept a significant loss on Antony, potentially in the region of £25 million.

Source: Express.co.uk