“He’s fantastic” – President says he’s ‘working’ on move for Manchester United player
by Naveen Ullal · Sport WitnessManchester United’s Antony starred for Real Betis during his loan spell this year and the La Liga club want to extend his stay.
Last month, Real Betis CEO Ramón Alarcón and sporting director Manu Fajardo travelled to England to hold talks with the Red Devils.
On their return to Spain, Alarcón said it’s too early to discuss about this operation. On Friday, Fajardo sounded confident of finding an agreement with Manchester United. He also said the winger wants to continue at the club.
On Wednesday, ABC Sevilla reported Real Betis haven’t made progress in their negotiations with Manchester United over the past three weeks. Later that day, their president Ángel Haro spoke to Cope Sevilla, and Estadio Deportivo have relayed his comments.
When asked about the 25-year-old, Haro said they still have to agree terms with him. He added the Andalusian club have to take their financial limits into account on this operation.
“We’re talking to the player because coming to Betis entails a considerable reduction in salary, because we have to maintain our financial discipline and we don’t want to break it,” he said.
“He’s a fantastic player; he’s given us a lot in the last six months, but we have to get everything right; we can’t go crazy. We’re working on that path because it’s not easy.
“We’re very imaginative when it comes to approaching this type of transaction, but it’s complex. It involves the player, who loves Betis, but he also has to consider his own interests.”
Haro stressed the Brazil international’s return depends “on Manchester United, Antony and on Betis being willing to pay the transfer fee” requested by the Red Devils.
He further adds Manuel Pellegrini’s side are aware it’s a complex operation and have been working to try and sign Antony.
“We’ll have to see if he comes; he’s no longer here. We’re working on that path; it won’t be easy. Manchester [United] paid a significant amount, and he has two years left on his contract,” Haro explained.