Man Utd ‘closing in’ on Ajax winger as Red Devils ‘pursue’ deal for Porto striker

The latest transfer news regarding Manchester United’s summer incomings and outgoings.
Aiden Beswick
By Aiden Beswick
Published 21st Jun 2022, 11:26 BST
Updated 21st Jun 2022, 11:45 BST
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It’s been 11 days since the summer transfer window officially opened with Manchester United yet to sign any new players.

The Red Devils will see five first team stars depart the club when their contracts expire on 30 June, with Erik ten Hag tasked with replacing them.

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However, the wait for a fresh face at United could soon be over according to the Sun, who claim Ten Hag’s side are ‘closing in’ on the £40m signing of Ajax winger Antony.

The newspaper adds that the Red Devils have sent officials to Amsterdam today in order to secure the Brazilian’s signature.

Erik ten Hag has an extensive in-tray at United. Credit: Getty.Erik ten Hag has an extensive in-tray at United. Credit: Getty.
Erik ten Hag has an extensive in-tray at United. Credit: Getty.

Antony is no stranger to Ten Hag having worked under the Dutchman at Ajax before the manager came to Old Trafford.

The 22-year-old forward, who has been capped six times by Brazil, had a stellar performance for the Dutch club last season, netting 12 goals and registering 10 assists in 33 games in all competitions.

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Antony has already implied he would be happy to work with his former boss if the opportunity were to arise, with the Brazilian saying the following in Ajax’s farewell video to Ten Hag: "I want to wish you all the best at your new club.

"I also want to thank you for everything you taught me.

"I am thankful all the opportunities and learning every day.

"Know that I will always stand with you if you need me."

Elsewhere, United are ‘continuing their pursuit’ of Porto striker Evanilson, according to O Jogo.

The Portuguese tabloid claims the Red Devils have had an opening bid of £55m rejected for the 22-year-old, but plan to submit another offer.

United have had a bid rejected for Evanilson from Porto, according to reports in Portugal. Credit: Getty. United have had a bid rejected for Evanilson from Porto, according to reports in Portugal. Credit: Getty.
United have had a bid rejected for Evanilson from Porto, according to reports in Portugal. Credit: Getty.
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They add that Porto value the forward, who scored 21 goals in 45 games for the club in all competitions last season, at around £70m - a price tag that has put off interest from Wolverhampton Wanderers and Brighton & Hove Albion.

A move for a striker would be ideal for Ten Hag after United confirmed Edinson Cavani will depart this summer. The Red Devils’ options are thin up top with Cristiano Ronaldo expected to lead the line next season.

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