Manchester United

Manchester United

Premier League • England

Man Utd approach for Antony doomed to fail for two reasons, as Fabrizio Romano names likelier signing

Ajax attacker Antony

Man Utd will go back in for Antony before the window is out, though two reasons why they’re likely to fail have emerged, along with who is the “easier” option on their list.

With less than two weeks to go until the September 1 deadline, the team in greatest need of a late push is Manchester United. New faces could arrive at goalkeeper, right-back, central midfield, on the wing and at centre-forward.

Regarding the final third, all manner of names have been linked in recent weeks, though one in particular keeps popping back up – Antony.

Erik ten Hag knows the fiery Brazilian well through his time at Ajax. Antony would be a seamless fit into the new United boss’ system if signed, though Ajax won’t sell cheap.

Indeed, after losing several of their key players already, the Dutch club are determined to take a stand. In reality, that’s led to a whopping £80m price tag being placed on Antony.

Regardless, a club like United can afford that type of sum if they wish to. Indeed, Sky Sports’ Dharmesh Sheth claimed United are willing to try their luck with a “massive offer”.

Fabrizio Romano echoed that sentiment, tweeting Manchester United do plan to approach Ajax again in the next fortnight. However, he admitted the deal looks “difficult”, and two reasons why have emerged.

Firstly, Romano noted Ajax are dead set on retaining their star winger. Secondly, per Dutch outlet De Telegraaf, Antony is deemed happy at Ajax despite the persistent links to United.

With both Ajax and Antony seemingly on the same page, United’s task looks near-impossible.

Gakpo a likelier signing than Antony

That will prompt a change of attack towards a different target, and according to Romano, PSV Eindhoven’s Cody Gakpo is the “easier” option on their shortlist.

The 23-year-old is also a winger, though plays mainly on the left as opposed to Antony who operates on the right. Gakpo can also cover the central areas if required.

The Netherlands international enjoyed a breakthrough season last year, notching 21 goals and 15 assists across all competitions. He’s picked up where he left off this season, with three goals and four assists already to his name in six appearances.

Gakpo is reportedly valued at a far more reasonable £35m. However, he is unlikely to be available until August 24 at the earliest.

That is the date PSV Eindhoven’s Champions League fate will be determined. The first leg of their play-off round tie with Rangers ended 2-2.

Another target on United’s radar is Chelsea’s Christian Pulisic. The Blues are reportedly open to a loan exit, though want the American to sign a new contract first.

Cody Gakpo on Manchester United's radar with the club in need of attacking reinforcements

Cody Gakpo on Manchester United's radar with the club in need of attacking reinforcements

Manchester United have made initial contact with the representatives of PSV winger Cody Gakpo, who contributed to 36 goals in all competitions last season.