Man Utd insert secret 'penalty clause' into Antony's contract with Real Betis as move 'confirmed'

Manchester United have reportedly included a 'penalty clause' into Antony's proposed deal to join Real Betis.

After yet another disappointing campaign at Old Trafford, Brazilian winger Antony has been constantly linked with a move away.

Over the weekend it was claimed that Spanish La Liga side Betis were in pole position to land Antony on a loan deal for the remainder of the 24/25 season.

On Sunday, the 24-year-old came on in the 84th minute as United fell to a dismal 3-1 defeat against Brighton and Hove Albion at Old Trafford.

Transfer specialist Fabrizio Romano confirmed Antony's move to Betis on Monday morning.

He wrote on social media: "Antony to Real Betis, here we go! Verbal agreement in place between all parties with Man United too. Documents being checked; then time for travel and medical tests.

"United will let him leave on loan deal with no buy clause. He’ll be formally back to United in June."

Manchester United insert 'penalty clause' in Antony's loan deal to Real Betis

As reported by Spanish news outlet ABC Sevilla, via Sport Witness, United have inserted a penalty clause in Antony's contract with Betis.

The report stated: "Real Betis will pay part of his salary [less than 50%] and Manchester United have inserted a ‘penalty clause’ if the 24-year-old doesn’t play a series of matches.

"This is done so that the loan spell would be beneficial for Antony and the Red Devils."

Antony is set to join La Liga side Real Betis. Image: Getty

Antony first joined United from Dutch giants Ajax during the summer transfer window of 2022, for a reported fee of €95 million.

However, the Brazilian has largely failed to live up to the expectation and has struggled to nail down a regular spot in the starting XI under both Erik ten Hag and Ruben Amorim.

So far, he has only managed 12 goals in 96 appearances across all competitions for the Red Devils.

United are back in action on Thursday night as they welcome Rangers to Old Trafford for a much-anticipated Europa League clash.