Man United transfer news: Erik ten Hag reveals truth behind Antony to Bayer Leverkusen rumours

Former Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag has addressed rumours about a potential reunion with Antony a Bayer Leverkusen.

Ten Hag is back in work for the first time since being sacked as Man United boss last October, having taken over the reins at Leverkusen following Xabi Alonso's departure to Real Madrid. 

The Dutchman faces a tough task to match Alonso's success at the BayArena, especially as the club have sold the key duo of Florian Wirtz and Jeremie Frimpong to Liverpool.

Leverkusen have at least strengthened their squad with a number of new additions, including the arrivals of Jarell Quansah and Mark Flekken from Liverpool and Brentford respectively.

There has been a suggestion that Leverkusen could look to make Man United's Antony the latest member of Ten Hag's squad.

Ten Hag reveals truth behind Antony rumours

A move to Leverkusen would allow Antony to play under Ten Hag for the third time in his career, after the pair previously worked together at Ajax and Man United.

However, Ten Hag has poured cold water on the possibility of another reunion, despite admitting that he still has a strong relationship with the Brazil international. 

“He has great quality. I signed him twice," Ten Hag told reporters. "He was like a son to me, he still is a son to me.

"We're not interested in him at the moment, but we'll see what happens in the future."

Antony scored 24 goals and provided 22 assists in 82 competitive appearances under Ten Hag at Dutch giants Ajax.

Unfortunately for the pair, the winger has been unable to replicate that sort of form since joining Man United for £82.5m in August 2022.

Where could Antony go this summer?

Antony was allowed to spend the second half of last season on loan at Real Betis after being deemed surplus to requirements by Ten Hag's successor, Ruben Amorim.

The 25-year-old enjoyed a successful spell with the Spanish side, netting four goals and contributing five assists in 26 competitive matches.

Betis are keen to bring Antony back to the Benito Villamarin, but they are struggling to find the funds to pull off the transfer.

There is a possibility that the Brazilian could be given the chance to continue his Premier League career away from Old Trafford.

Newcastle United and Brighton & Hove Albion have emerged as surprise contenders in the race to sign a player who has two years left to run on his Man United contract.