Man Utd make firm decision on under-fire star as swap deal 'completely ruled out'

Manchester United have reportedly made a firm decision on the future of under-fire winger Antony amid speculation he has been lined up for a move back to Brazil.

The former Ajax winger has received some criticism as he struggles to find form at Old Trafford and he is yet to provide a goal or an assist in 11 appearances in all competitions so far this season.

Despite his struggles, Antony is believed to retain the support of Red Devils manager Erik ten Hag, who worked with the Brazil international during his time at Ajax and proved integral in persuading the winger to leave the Dutch giants to move to Old Trafford last summer. 

Despite that support, there has been speculation United would be prepared to allow the 23-year-old to return to his home country to join Flamengo in a deal that would see striker Gabriel Barbosa move in the opposite direction.

However, Brazilian journalist Jorge Nicola has claimed he has received assurances Ten Hag has ‘too much confidence’ in Antony and ‘completely ruled out’ any possible move back to South America.

Speaking via his YouTube channel, he said: “I spoke to someone close to Antony, this person took a while to respond but finally appeared and assured that Antony will not come to play in Brazilian football, neither for Flamengo or Sao Paolo.

“United made a very large investment of €100m, one of main signings of the last summer transfer window in Europe.  United will insist on Antony and this return will certainly not be loaned to Brazilian clubs.  The idea would be to look for someone else in European football - but there is still hope within United it can work out.

“Erik ten Hag, the Manchester United coach, has too much confidence in Antony, he was the one who asked for Antony to be signed, the two worked together during his time at Ajax.  (We can) completely rule out the former Sao Paolo striker returning to Brazilian football.”