Manchester United target Antony 'refused to train' with Ajax as transfer talks continue

Manchester United are continuing their search for an attacking reinforcement as the Summer Transfer Window draws into its closing stages.

With the club already losing three attackers this summer in Edinson Cavani, Juan Mata and Jesse Lingard, attacking options are becoming limited.

Coupled with the potential departure of Cristiano Ronaldo, and it begins to look like a real struggle.

It was identified early in the window that Ajax winger Antony was a significant target for Erik ten Hag in the forward position, but after Ajax increased their demand to over €100 million for the player, the possibility of a transfer looked bleak.

This was until a few days ago, when it was revealed that Manchester United placed a bid of around €80 million for the player – a deal which Ajax then rejected.

🗞️ #mufc are preparing a new offer for Antony. It should be €80 million plus €20m in add-ons and could be accepted. [@Santi_J_FM]

— UtdDistrict 🔰 (@UtdDistrict) August 19, 2022

It has since been revealed that Antony refused to train on Saturday during a behind closed doors training session today.

🗞 There was a behind closed doors training session at Ajax today, where Antony refused to take part. Ajax are willing to sell to #mufc for €100m. [@JonathanShrager]

— UtdDistrict 🔰 (@UtdDistrict) August 20, 2022

Interestingly, this is not the first time this has happened this summer involving an Ajax player.

Back before he officially signed for the club, Lisandro Martinez pulled a similar move.

The Argentinian, who eventually signed for the club for a fee of around £60 million including add ons, told Ajax that he will quit training if the Amsterdam side did not allow his move to the Old Trafford club to materialise.

It is obvious that Antony wants to swap to Erik ten Hag’s Manchester United, and has been for some time.

Speaking on his future, the Brazilian said: “What I can say is that I want to come to the right decision with my family, business partners and Ajax, which is good for everyone.

“In the end, God determines my future.”

When asked whether he could guarantee his stay with Ajax beyond the summer, he said: “No, to be perfectly honest, I can't.

“Now I am focusing on playing football and have put all other matters in the hands of my agents and my brother. They will advise me on what is best.

“If we all decide that I will stay here, then I know that this is the best thing for me and the club. It's not like I have to leave.”

Manchester United are due to take on Liverpool on Monday as Erik ten Hag looks to get some Premier League points on the board.

United currently sit 20th in the table, and have made one of their worst starts in recent history after a 2-1 loss to Brighton was followed by a 4-0 thumping at the hands of Brentford.