Manchester United are reportedly willing to part ways with one of their most expensive signings in history after almost two underwhelming years at Old Trafford.
The Red Devils, who are currently in a poor run of form following defeats in the Champions League and Carabao Cup and several poor results in the Premier League, have grown tired of the player and want to sell him in January.
The player in question here is Anthony, a player who they signed for almost £86 million from Ajax in the summer of 2022.
The 23-year Brazilian came with so much hype and promise, with his success with Erik ten Hag at Ajax expected to be replicated at Old Trafford. But after over 17 months in England, Anthony has scored just eight times in 54 appearances in all competitions.
The Brazilian international’s form this season is even more concerning as he is yet to open his account for the 2023-24 season despite playing ten times. He has also been criticised for his conduct on the pitch, while his off-pitch debacle in September also put the limelight on him wrongly.
And now, according to The Mirror, Manchester United want an attacking player with better performance than Anthony. The Red Devils have identified Flamengo forward Gabriel Barbosa as that player and are reportedly willing to offer Antony in a part exchange deal for the attacker.
Barbosa, who is popularly called Gabigol, scored 20 times in 55 appearances across all competitions for Flamengo last season.
The 27-year-old plays as a centre-forward for the Brazilian side. He has been linked with a move to the Premier League for some time, with West Ham, Arsenal, Newcastle, and West Ham having previously shown an interest in bringing him to England.
The deal would reportedly see the former Ajax winger move to the Brazilian top-flight side on a part-exchange loan. A permanent deal for the 23-year-old winger is unlikely, with his contract at Old Trafford will expire in 2027.
