Erik ten Hag Opens Up About Antony's Move to Bayer Leverkusen: "He's Like a Son to Me"

Bayer Leverkusen boss Erik ten Hag has offered glowing words about Manchester United's Antony, though he has dismissed speculation linking him with a potential summer move for the Brazilian winger.

Antony's breakthrough performances under Ten Hag during their time together at Ajax led to United splashing out £86 million ($115.3 million) to bring the duo back together at Old Trafford in summer 2022, yet neither achieved the success they had hoped for in Manchester.

Ten Hag was dismissed from his role two years on, while Antony, who had already fallen out of favor under the Dutch coach, was loaned to Real Betis for the latter half of last season, where he rediscovered the impressive form he had shown in the Dutch league.

As United seek to sell Antony permanently this summer, speculation has linked Ten Hag and Leverkusen with a potential swoop for the 25-year-old, though these reports have now been dismissed.

"[Antony] possesses tremendous ability," Ten Hag stated during a press conference in Brazil before his team's opening pre-season match against Flamengo. "I brought him in on two occasions. He was like family to me and remains so.

"We have no current interest in acquiring him, though we'll monitor how things develop."

Antony is reportedly eager to return to Betis, where he recorded nine goals and five assists across 26 appearances. The Spanish club shares this enthusiasm but has publicly cautioned United that their valuation, reportedly around £35 million ($46.9 million), might derail negotiations.

United's efforts to move on surplus players have yet to bear fruit. Marcus Rashford continues waiting for Barcelona to make their move, while serious interest in Alejandro Garnacho remains absent.

Jadon Sancho appears nearest to departing, currently in discussions with Juventus. The Italian giants are understood to have made an offer that doesn't meet United's valuation.