Antony left out of Ajax squad as Man United learn asking price for winger

Antony wants to join Man United.

Antony has been left out of the Ajax squad following interest from Manchester United, who have been told what they will have to pay in order to secure the winger. The Brazilian was due to be a part of the Ajax squad to face Sparta Rotterdam on Sunday but has now set his sights on a reunion with Erik ten Hag, who is desperate to bolster his attacking options. United have made three signings already and are close to confirming a fourth after reaching an agreement for a £60m deal with Real Madrid for Casemiro. Antony is now the number one priority to sign but the Red Devils have already had two bids for the winger rejected, as per The Times. Ajax are expecting United to come back with a third offer worth €100m (£84.9m) which could well be enough to tempt the Dutch club into selling. The 22-year-old told De Telegraaf on Friday that he would be unable to commit to playing for Ajax as he trained away from the rest of the first-team squad in an attempt to force through a move to Old Trafford. "I can’t [commit]," he said. "Now I am focusing on playing football and I have put all other matters in the hands of my agents and my brother. They will advise me on what is best." Under the guidance of Ten Hag last season, the Brazilian scored eight times in 23 league games and he reserved lots of praise for his former boss.

"Manchester United will improve at his hand. At his previous clubs, he has proven that his method works," Antony added.

"Erik has been super important to me. I am grateful to him and I will always cheer for Erik after working so closely together. I have not been able to celebrate or cheer for him as he got no points yet. I couldn’t until now anyway and that makes me sad. But knowing Erik, I am convinced that he will turn the tide soon."

United are currently bottom of the table and face arch rivals Liverpool on Monday, with home supporters expected to protest against the Glazer family. Related links:

• Wayne Rooney speaks perfect sense about Man United signing Casemiro
• Harry Maguire could be set for shock Chelsea move in swap deal.
• Jamie Redknapp on the five players Man United can do without next season.