Real Betis have confirmed the permanent signing of Brazilian winger Antony from Manchester United. The deal, finalized on transfer deadline day, ends months of speculation and marks a fresh chapter for the 25-year-old following a revitalizing loan spell at the Andalusian club.
Betis have reportedly agreed to a €25 million transfer fee, with United retaining a 50 percent sell-on clause—a strategic move aiming to benefit both sides if Antony is sold onward.
Antony previously joined Real Betis on loan in January 2025 and enjoyed a remarkable resurgence in form. Across 26 appearances in all competitions, he tallied nine goals and five assists and notably played a pivotal role in Betis reaching the Europa Conference League final.
His transformation quickly made headlines. Antony cited the move as the best decision of his career, emphasizing his happiness and renewed confidence. “I am very happy… I found myself, I needed to find myself, I needed to be happy, I needed my family to be happy too,” he told DAZN.
Before arriving at Betis, Antony had endured a difficult tenure at Manchester United, having transferred from Ajax in 2022 for a reported £81–86 million. Despite the high price tag, his impact at Old Trafford was limited, recording only around 12 goals and five assists across nearly 100 appearances.
Now, Real Betis have taken the bold step of making the deal permanent. The structure of the agreement involves a significant financial loss for United, who signed Antony for far more just three years ago. The club reportedly accepted around £19 million upfront plus £2.6 million in add-ons, with no severance pay to the player and the inclusion of that 50 percent sell-on clause.
From Betis’ perspective, this acquisition is a huge win. During Antony’s loan, club officials including CEO Ramón Alarcón had expressed optimism about a permanent move, noting the winger’s integration and impact exceeded expectations. Sporting director Manu Fajardo had confirmed that efforts to keep Antony extended beyond just on-field performance, involving a cohesive effort from the club’s management.
Reports indicate that the transfer was not without difficulties. Salary negotiations posed challenges, and United’s financial expectations initially put the deal in jeopardy. Nonetheless, an agreement was ultimately reached, paving the way for one of the most notable deadline day transfers.
Beyond his club achievements, Antony’s return to form came at a critical time for his international aspirations. His displays in Seville even attracted the attention of Brazil’s coach Carlo Ancelotti, sparking renewed interest in national team selection. For Antony personally, the move was as much about mental well-being as it was about football. He had battled emotional challenges and feelings of isolation in Manchester before rediscovering his joy for the game in a supportive environment at Betis.
The agreement ensures that Betis have secured the player’s services for the foreseeable future, likely on a contract rumored to run until 2030. This provides both the player and the club with stability and a long-term foundation for further progress.