Manchester United target Antony has spoken about the speculations surrounding his Ajax future.
The Brazilian winger has been linked with a move to Old Trafford for the large majority of the transfer window.
With a deal said to be inching ever closer, Antony has spoken about his situation during an interview with transfer specialist, Fabrizio Romano.
When asked about the transfer negotiations, Antony stated that his agents told the Eredivisie club his desire to leave back in February.
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Antony said: “Since February of this year, my agents came to Amsterdam to inform Ajax of my desire to leave the club to face new challenge and that some interested clubs would arrive and with them, certainly a great offer.”
The 22-year-old added: “In June of this year, I interrupted my vacation and came personally to inform the managers of Ajax, including new coach, about my wish to leave and that they should consider this possibility, because it was a project for 2 seasons.”
Ajax offered a new deal to Antony in a bid to keep him at the club, however, he expressed that his mind was made up, he was looking for a new challenge.
Antony said: “During the window months, meetings continued and I also received a proposal from Ajax for contract renewal. I made it clear once again: I want to leave.”
Antony then said he met with the club on Friday to discuss his future as ‘a considerable offer’ was on the table. However, Ajax was not keen to do business as the club said they only had five days to find a suitable replacement.
“Today, in a meeting with the club, I expressed my old interest in leaving, only this time with a considerable offer on the table. Others had already arrived! Ajax refused with argument that they only have 5 days to replace me.”
Antony did say that he was happy in Amsterdam, but is eager to explore his dreams.
He told Romano: “I was very happy in Amsterdam, I won titles at Ajax, made friends and built part of my career, but now I reinforce that I am ready and full of motivation to follow my story and my dreams.”
He ended the interview with a message to Ajax fans.
Antony said: “I hope Ajax fans understand me... because the future for a football player is a totally uncertain thing and the opportunities can be unique.
“My message is one of gratitude for Ajax, club and fans.”
A move to Old Trafford will see Antony reunited with Erik ten Hag, who coached him during the Dutchman’s reign as Ajax boss.
Topics: Ajax, Antony, Manchester United, Manchester United Transfer News & Rumours, Fabrizio Romano
Marcus Chan