Manchester United mulls over avant-garde joint ownership arrangement for Antony, according to recent reports.

Manchester United's second-most expensive signing ever, Brazilian footballer Antony, is at the centre of a unique transfer negotiation with Spanish football club Real Betis.

Antony, who joined United from Ajax in 2022 for a transfer fee of £86m, has registered nine goals and five assists in all competitions for Real Betis since his loan move in the second half of the season. Given his impressive performance during his short-term spell, Real Betis are likely to be Manchester United's best buyer.

The deal details are currently being negotiated between the two clubs. Real Betis have proposed an offer of around 20 million euros for 50% of the shared ownership rights of Antony, making them a co-owner of the player. This offer is an alien structure to English clubs, but one that could potentially benefit both parties.

Manchester United have set a £39m asking price for Antony, but the deal is not ideal for the club as they attempt to balance their books after a summer of heavy investment. The agreement between the two clubs would involve United retaining a 50% sell-on clause on Antony, ensuring they would benefit should Real Betis decide to sell his rights in the future.

The arrival of Ruben Amorim as head coach at Manchester United signalled the beginning of the end for Antony at the club. The player, however, wants the transfer to Real Betis and is willing to take a pay cut to make it happen.

Club captain Isco of Real Betis has even suggested crowdfunding Antony's permanent transfer, showing the level of interest in the player from the Spanish side.

In the current situation, Manchester United were never likely to be the winners in any Antony deal following their vast overpayment to Ajax. The deal structure, although unheard of on English shores, may be in Manchester United's best interest to take what they can and get Antony's wages off the books.

According to Transfermarkt, Antony is valued at €35m. As the negotiations continue, it remains to be seen if Manchester United will accept Real Betis' offer and if Antony will make his move to the Spanish club permanent.

Antony has made 96 appearances and has been involved in 17 goals for Manchester United.

This article is based on the latest information available at the time of writing and will be updated as new details emerge.

Manchester United mulls over avant-garde joint ownership arrangement for Antony, according to recent reports.