Antony transfer saga takes fresh twist as Ruben Amorim 'personally intervenes' to stop Real Betis move

Manchester United winger Antony's transfer to Real Betis has been derailed after Ruben Amorim reportedly stepped in to stop the deal.

Over the past week, Antony's exit from United has looked almost certain as reports suggested that the winger was set to join La Liga side Real Betis.

The deal would see the Brazilian join the Spanish club on loan for the remainder of the 2024/25 season, but is yet to be confirmed by either United or Antony himself.

But now, the silence from all parties may have been explained as it has been revealed that United manager Amorim has personally stepped in to block the move for one specific reason.

Details of Antony's move to Real Betis first emerged on Monday, as it was revealed that United had agreed on a loan deal that did not include a buy option.

Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano later added that the decision to let go of the Brazilian, who has struggled since joining United from Ajax for a reported £86million in the summer of 2022, was a statement of intent from United.

But, the fact that United are yet to bring sign anyone in the ongoing January transfer window, has reportedly led to Amorim stepping in to stop Antony's move to Betis, as he believes the club cannot afford to let him go without first bringing in a replacement.

According to Spanish outlet Diario de Sevilla, via Sport Witness, Amorim does not see the 24-year-old as a key player in his squad, as demonstrated by him only earning three starts this season, but feels he cannot leave without the club getting more cover in attack.

The newspaper wrote: "This shortage of attackers, precisely, is what motivates Amorim not to unblock Antony’s definitive departure."

Antony has struggled to find form since joining Manchester United nearly three years ago. (Image: Getty)

However, several outlets have also reported that this block was only in place until after United's Europa League clash against Rangers, meaning Antony would now be free to travel to Seville to complete his medial with Real Betis and finalise the deal.

At the end of the season in June, Antony will return to United and his future at Old Trafford will be reassessed .