Man Utd strongest starting XI after £85m Antony agreement with Ajax

Manchester United have agreed an £85m deal with Ajax for the signing of Brazilian forward Antony.

Erik ten Hag, who joined the Red Devils from the Dutch club this summer, has already raided his former team in the transfer market with the £56.7m signing of Lisandro Martinez.

Antony’s arrival comes with much excitement amongst the United fanbase. The 22-year-old has pace, skill and can contribute to setting up and scoring goals - all things Red Devils fans will be delighted with.

The Brazilian has featured three times in all competitions for Ajax this season, scoring twice and assisting his teammates on the same number of occasions.

He will likely cause a selection headache for Ten Hag once available for selection, especially with United winning back-to-back games in the league.

Anthony is known for playing on the right-side of a front three, cutting inside on his left foot and troubling his opposition.

Another attacking option for the Red Devils leaves the question… with his arrival, what is the club’s strongest starting XI? We take a look below…

Goalkeeper - David De Gea

The Spaniard has improved in his last two outings for United after criticism of his distribution, which led to Brentford scoring in the second game of the season. Despite this, his reflexes and shot-stopping make him one of the best goalkeepers in the league.

Right-back - Diogo Dalot

The full-back contributes to attacking phases, while also remaining defensively aware. He has been one of United’s best performers this season.

Centre-back - Raphael Varane

When fit, he is one of the best centre-backs in the world and has helped solidify United’s leaky defence from last campaign. His experience, composure and pace is vital to deal with the threat of other club’s attackers.

Centre-back - Lisandro Martinez

The new signing was criticised for his performances against Brighton & Hove Albion and Brentford, but, once partnered with Raphael Varane, was able to show why Ten Hag recruited him this summer.

Left-back - Tyrell Malacia

Pace, confidence, attack-minded, while remaining focused on defensive duties, Tyrell Malacia is exactly what United have been missing in a full-back since the departure of Patrice Evra. His performances so far have shown why refreshing the club’s options at left-back has been needed for some time.

Centre-midfield - Casemiro

The Brazilian is regarded as one of the world’s best midfielders, winning five Champions League with Real Madrid. His quality will help United massively in the middle of the pitch.

Centre-midfield - Christian Eriksen

Still finding his feet at United but there’s no denying he has the quality to succeed at the club. The Dane is dangerous from set pieces, while also having an eye for goal.

Centre-midfield - Bruno Fernandes

Scored a fantastic first-time finish against Southampton and has shown he is still one of the best midfielders in the league, despite underwhelming performances over the past several months. The Portuguese international will be hoping he can create good link up play with Eriksen and Casemiro as a three-man midfield.

Right-wing - Antony

A dangerous player, who has 24 goals and 22 assists in 82 games for Ajax, Anthony will add much-needed firepower for United when on the attack. His confidence is also a key attribute, with the Brazilian not scared of taking players on.

Centre-forward - Anthony Martial

The Frenchman looks a completely different player under Ten Hag this season, contributing significantly to the club’s solid pre-season and playing well against Liverpool. If he remains fit, it’s hard to look past him being United’s main striker this campaign.

Left-wing - Jadon Sancho

The 22-year-old can operate on either wing, but would be better suited to the left once Antony arrives. Like the Brazilian, Jadon Sancho is a danger when cutting inside onto his stronger foot, picking a pass or trying his luck at goal.