Man Utd learn Real Betis' Antony transfer plan | OneFootball

Real Betis are preparing a bid to extend Antony's loan from Manchester United by a further 12 months, a report has revealed.

A January loan to Betis has proven the perfect medicine to rejuvenate Antony's stalling career. With five goals and four assists in 18 games, the winger has left United convinced they can pocket as much as £40m with a permanent sale this summer - which still represents a loss of £42m compared to their initial outlay.

Betis' loan deal does not include the option for a permanent transfer but the club have already gone public with their desire to retain Antony beyond this season.

The Telegraph state Betis are planning to try and extend Antony's loan by a further 12 months rather than pursue a permanent deal. Reports elsewhere have claimed this was always Betis' plan and they only agreed to the initial six-month deal in January because it was far simpler than setting out terms for a year-and-a-half.

Whether United would be open to such an offer is a different question entirely. The Red Devils want to cut ties with Antony permanently this summer as they look to fund their own shopping spree.

There have been claims that the only way United would settle on another loan would be if Betis agreed to include the obligation to make the move permanent next summer, but there are no suggestions the Spanish side are prepared to make that commitment thus far.

It is thought Betis will only pursue a permanent move if they qualify for the Champions League. They currently sit fifth in the La Liga standings, which - just as in the Premier League - guarantees a spot in Europe's premier club competition.

The uncertainty has even led to two of Antony's teammates discussing the idea of launching a crowdfunding bid to sign the United loanee permanently. He is a popular figure at Betis and has not shied away from stressing his happiness at the club, but much will depend on United's financial demands.