La Liga side seeking summer agreement for resurgent Manchester United star

Real Betis are keen to extend Manchester United outcast Antony’s loan for another season

Manchester United are set to make major decisions this summer regarding the futures of several high-profile players who have failed to make a lasting impact at Old Trafford. One such player is Antony, who arrived with high expectations and a significant price tag but has struggled to deliver consistent performances in a United shirt. The Brazilian was loaned out to Real Betis during the winter transfer window, and he has since begun to find his form in La Liga.

According to El Desmarque, Betis officials have held discussions with Manchester United about extending Antony’s stay. The Spanish club is reportedly pleased with his performances and is open to renewing the loan deal for another season, even agreeing to cover the full cost of his wages.

United, for their part, have no interest in keeping Antony beyond this season, and the player himself is not keen on returning to Manchester. However, while United would prefer to sell, they are reluctant to offload him to a Premier League rival. Real Betis are concerned that if a permanent offer in the region of €40–50 million arrives, United might cash in, an amount Betis cannot afford. Still, the Spanish side is hopeful of extending the loan, especially as Antony is eager to continue playing in La Liga to boost his chances of making Brazil’s squad for the 2026 World Cup.

Real Betis are keen to extend Manchester United outcast Antony's loan for another season.

In terms of his performances this season, Antony has shown glimpses of his potential during his loan spell at Real Betis. The Brazilian has scored four goals in 13 La Liga appearances in the 2024/25 campaign, one at home and three away. He is averaging 0.33 goals per 90 minutes, with a total of six goal contributions (goals + assists), bringing his goal involvement to 0.49 per 90 minutes. Additionally, his non-penalty expected goals (xG) per 90 minutes stands at 0.30, reflecting his improved attacking output and influence in the final third.

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Extending Antony’s loan at Real Betis for another season could prove to be a smart and pragmatic move for Manchester United, satisfying all parties involved. With Betis already covering his full wages, United are able to ease some of their financial burden without committing to a long-term decision on a player who may not align with Ruben Amorim’s tactical plans. For Antony, remaining in La Liga is an attractive proposition—especially with the 2026 World Cup on the horizon, providing him with both stability and the platform to stay in the spotlight.

While a permanent transfer to a Premier League rival would carry strategic risks, Betis are in no position to match United’s €40–50 million valuation. As such, a renewed loan appears to be the most logical route. It offers United time and flexibility, enabling them to prioritise more urgent squad reinforcements, potentially targeting dynamic players like Eberechi Eze or Bryan Mbeumo. In essence, it’s a low-risk, high-reward solution that preserves future options while addressing present concerns.