Real Betis sporting director Manu Fajardo has confirmed that the club will do “everything possible” to keep Manchester United loanee Antony beyond this season.
Antony’s loan spell in Spain has been a resounding success, with the winger contributing four goals and four assists in 13 appearances. However, his loan deal does not include an option for a permanent transfer.
As things stand, Antony is set to return to Manchester United this summer, but Betis executive Ramon Alarcon has previously shared that the Brazilian expressed a desire to remain at the club.
Reports suggest that Betis may need to qualify for the Champions League to have a chance of retaining Antony, but even if they miss out, Fajardo insists the club will explore all avenues to keep him.
“It’s still early, but we’ll try in different ways to do everything possible to continue enjoying Antony,” he told Movistar.
It was reported last month that Betis had initiated talks with United about extending the loan, but the Red Devils are seeking a permanent transfer, which Betis currently cannot afford.
Teammate Isco humorously suggested a crowdfunding campaign to raise the necessary funds to keep Antony, a notion that defender Marc Bartra has supported.
“Among my teammates, we’re willing to do whatever’s best for the team. Let’s go,” Bartra said in response to the fundraising idea. “Antony’s doing very well, and Betis has given him incredible affection and love from day one.”
Antony, for his part, has remained neutral about his future, knowing that he could still return to United this summer.
