Arsenal Eyeing Shock ‘Priority’ Move to Sign £82m Man United Transfer Flop – Report | OneFootball

Arsenal Eye Shock Summer Swoop Amid Revived Form in Spain

In a surprising twist, Arsenal are reportedly prioritising a move for Manchester United outcast Antony, following his impressive loan spell at Real Betis. The Brazilian winger, once written off by many in the Premier League, is now being eyed by some of Europe’s elite clubs — and it’s north London where he may next land.

Antony’s time at Manchester United was, by all accounts, underwhelming. Signed in 2022 for a jaw-dropping fee of £82 million (rising to £86m), he struggled to live up to the hype. In 62 Premier League appearances, he managed just five goals and three assists — a return that would be considered meagre even for a player costing half the price.

The 25-year-old tumbled down the pecking order under both Erik ten Hag and new manager Ruben Amorim, before being loaned out to Real Betis in January. But in Spain, something has clicked.

He’s now contributed eight goals in 12 games, helping Betis to a stunning six-match winning streak in La Liga. What once seemed a fantasy — European qualification — is now a realistic ambition for the Spanish side, largely thanks to Antony’s resurgence.

Photo IMAGO

Arsenal Make Antony a ‘Priority’ Signing

According to Fichajes, Real Betis are keen to keep Antony, but face an uphill battle. His value has surged, and Manchester United reportedly believe they can now command £40 million from a permanent sale — a figure well out of Betis’ reach.

“Arsenal is willing to make a strong bid for the winger and will not hesitate to submit an offer that surpasses any attempt by Betis to keep him,” claims Fichajes.

With the Gunners expected to refresh their attacking options this summer, Mikel Arteta has allegedly identified Antony as a player who could complement his tactical style. “Mikel Arteta believes his profile fits perfectly with the London club’s style of play and is determined to sign him,” the report adds.

This is not mere speculation, either. Arsenal are said to be pushing for a pre-emptive deal, eager to negotiate with United before any rivals — including Atletico Madrid, who are also reportedly monitoring the situation — can make their move.

What Antony Could Bring to Arsenal

Should the Gunners get this deal over the line, it could represent one of the more intriguing moves of the window. Antony’s raw talent has never been in doubt — quick, agile, and technically gifted, he fits the mould of a classic wide playmaker. What has been missing in England is consistency and end product.

In Spain, however, he’s showing both. His performances in La Liga indicate a more confident, decisive version of the player seen in Manchester. If Arteta can tap into that momentum, Arsenal could benefit from a much-improved player, one finally adapting to European football.

Photo: IMAGO

Big Gamble or Masterstroke?

There’s no ignoring the risks. Spending big on a player who has already flopped in England would naturally raise eyebrows. Arsenal fans may remember similar punts that didn’t pay off — and £40 million is still a significant investment.

Yet the context matters. Antony’s fall from grace at United was as much about the system and environment as his individual shortcomings. Under Amorim, and now at Betis, he seems reborn.

For Arteta, who has a proven record of improving and adapting players (see: Ødegaard, Zinchenko, White), this could be a calculated gamble worth taking.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

As an Arsenal fan, this report leaves me equal parts intrigued and concerned.

There’s no denying that Antony is showing serious signs of life again in Spain. He looks sharp, confident, and dangerous. But do we really need another wide forward who thrives on confidence and is prone to dips? We already have the likes of Trossard and Martinelli — both quality options — and the brilliant Saka on the right.

Dropping £40 million on a player who couldn’t cut it at United feels like a risk, especially when there are midfield and striker areas that arguably need strengthening more urgently. What happens if he struggles again under the intensity of the Premier League? Will we be left with another expensive asset who can’t be moved on?

Of course, if Arteta truly believes Antony fits his vision, then he deserves trust. He’s earned that. But this can’t be another Willian-type situation — all hype, little return.

And let’s not ignore the elephant in the room: doing business with United. When was the last time that really worked out well for either side?

Yes, Antony might shine under Arteta, but this feels like a move that could just as easily backfire. I’d love to be wrong — but I’m sceptical. Arsenal are building something special. Let’s not throw a spanner in the works.