Manchester United target Antony has pleaded with his current club Ajax to allow him to join the Old Trafford side this summer.
The Brazilian international is one of the key targets of Erik ten Hag’s side who have reportedly seen two huge offers for him turned down by Ajax.
According to reports, Manchester United had made a €90m bid for the winger. But the Dutch club argues that the bid is still roughly €2m short of their asking price.
Anthony feels that the club are pricing him out of a move and so has attempted to force a move by skipping training sessions. He is not currently working with the first team as he looks to bend the will of Ajax.
In a move to also make his position clear, Antony spoke with Fabrizio Romano in an exclusive interview where he gave the world his tale of events in this saga.
“Since February of this year, my agents came to Amsterdam to inform Ajax of my desire to leave the club to face a new challenge, and that some of the interested clubs would arrive and with them a great offer,” the Brazilian said.
“In June of this year, I interrupted my vacation and came personally to inform the managers of Ajax, including the new coach, about my wish to leave and that they should consider this possibility. Because when I started in Amsterdam, it was a project for two seasons.
“During the window months, meetings concluded, including a proposal from Ajax for a contract renewal. I made it clear once again – ‘I want to leave the club’.
“Today, in a meeting with the club’s board of directors, I expressed my old interest in leaving the club, only this time with a considerable offer on the table. Others had already arrived [but] Ajax always refused and hindered the argument that they only have to replace [me].
“I’m not asking to release me. I’m asking Ajax to sell me as the highest bid received by a player who plays in the Eredivisie in history. I’ve been insisting on this term since February so that the club could rebuild the team with peace of mind.”
The 22-year-old also revealed that his wish to join Man United is born out of his desire to play at the highest level.
“I was very happy in Amsterdam. I won titles, made friends and built a part of my career. But now I reinforce that I’m ready and full of motivation to follow my story and my dreams.
“People need to listen to me and understand that my motivation moves me towards happiness. I need to continue performing at the highest level.
“Ajax will always be in my heart.
“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 [to the fans] is one of gratitude.”
