Manchester United are reportedly planning a bid to replace Antony with 22-year-old Crystal Palace winger Michael Olise.
Antony cost a staggering £86 million (including add-ons) when he signed from Ajax in the summer of 2022. The Brazilian has fallen out of favour under Erik ten Hag at Old Trafford after he failed to replicate the form he was known for during his spell at Ajax.
According to reports, Manchester United are willing to let go of Antony this summer and his replacement could be Crystal Palace winger Michael Olise who reportedly favours a move to the Red Devils over Liverpool.
Antony returned reasonable figures of four goals and two assists across 25 Premier League matches last season. But rather than take a step forward this current season, the 24-year-old has weakened.
Antony’s 25 league appearances this season have returned just one assist and no goals. As a result, the Brazilian has largely been overlooked for selection since the turn of the year, with Alejandro Garnacho often deployed on his less favored right flank.
The plan to replace Antony with Olise won’t come cheap as Palace will demand a big fee for the Nigerian-born Englishman. The likes of Manchester City and Chelsea were interested in his services last summer.
Olise has experienced an injury-ridden season with Palace in the Premier League. The 22-year-old racked up an impressive 11 assists in the Premier League last season and has returned figures of nine-goal contributions in 12 outings during an injury-hit season this campaign.
Olise reportedly favours Man United over Liverpool, Chelsea
Chelsea attempted to sign the impressive 22-year-old last summer and even triggered his £35 million release clause. However, Olise decided to reject the Blues and remain at Selhurst Park where he quickly signed a new contract.
The fresh agreement raised the release fee to a reported £60 million. Chelsea – as well as Liverpool – are both understood to be considering activating the clause this summer.
However, Olise is a lifelong Man United fan and reports claimed the winger would prefer to sign with the Red Devils above all others.
Furthermore, several football outlets stated that agreeing personal terms with Olise is not expected to be a problem for the Red Devils.
What’s next for Manchester United?
It remains to be seen if the Old Trafford outfit will secure the acquisition of the 22-year-old winger in the summer or look elsewhere for Antony’s replacement. In addition, the 20-time Premier League winners will be seen next in action in the FA Cup semi-final when they face Coventry City on Sunday, April 21.
