Man Utd ‘decide top attacking target’ to pursue once midfield transfers finalised

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Manchester United will switch their focus to a move for Ajax winger Antony once they have reinforced their midfield ranks with the addition of Barcelona playmaker Frenkie de Jong, according to reports. The Red Devils are yet to rubber-stamp any summer signings but are said to be working hard behind closed doors to make things happen in advance of the new Premier League campaign.

A move for De Jong has reportedly been in the works for some time but a deal now looks close to being agreed, with talks continuing between United and Barcelona in order to finally reach a full agreement. The 13-time Premier League champions are already looking into the future, though, and have decided to prioritise a move for Antony as soon as De Jong is in the building, according to The Times.

It is said that Erik ten Hag is desperate to improve United’s forward line as well as the strength of their midfield and will step up the chase for Antony’s services when De Jong is eventually snapped up from Barcelona. Antony is believed to be a priority target for those in power at Old Trafford after excelling under Ten Hag’s guidance at Ajax over the course of last season.

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United reportedly entered preliminary talks with the Dutch giants earlier this month but are yet to tempt them with a suitable offer in spite of their interest in Antony’s signature. It remains to be seen whether the Red Devils will ultimately be priced out of the move, though, with Ajax said to be demanding around £70million in order to let go of their prized asset.

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