Manchester United need to upgrade their frontline options this summer and they've been strongly linked with a move for Darwin Nunez. However, it seems the club will miss out on the Uruguayan's signature and they will now have to look elsewhere.
Elite-level strikers have never been cheap and with so many clubs looking to add a number nine to their ranks this summer, United may either be priced out of a move for their main targets or face competition from clubs who can offer Champions League football. Furthermore, with Cristiano Ronaldo looking set to stay for another year, Erik ten Hag also has the issue of trying to persuade strikers to move to Old Trafford when they won't be guaranteed a place in the starting XI.
However, there is a position in the starting XI where Ten Hag could almost guarantee a big-money signing regular game time (and no, it isn't defensive midfield this time). When United spent £73million on Jadon Sancho, the expectation was that he would play on the right wing, however, over the course of last season it became abundantly clear that he was better suited to the left-hand side of the attack.
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This is the case for most of United's senior options on the wing, including Marcus Rashford and Anthony Elanga. Amad could perhaps have been viewed as a candidate for a starting role on the right next season, though his underwhelming loan spell with Rangers means this looks highly unlikely.
To solve this problem, Ten Hag could look to raid his former side. Antony played under United's new manager at Ajax and he could offer balance on the right.
The Brazilian built a good relationship with Ten Hag in Amsterdam. In a farewell message contributed to by Ajax players both past and present, Antony said of the Dutchman: "I want to wish you all the best at your new club. I also want to thank you for everything you taught me. I am thankful for all the opportunities and learning every day. Know that I will always stand with you if you need me."
Reports from Brazil have claimed that United are ready to make an offer for Antony, with GoalBR adding that the player's representatives have flown to Europe to begin talks. The links are yet to be confirmed, but given United's right-side woes and Antony's relationship with Ten Hag, a deal certainly isn't out of the question.
If a deal does materialise, United will be getting a winger who has great technical ability, pace and will add some much-needed creativity to their right-hand side.
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