In a move that has stunned the football world, Chelsea have reached an agreement with Manchester United to sign Brazilian winger Antony for a fee believed to be in the region of £47 million plus add-ons, according to sources close to London Blue Insider.
The 24-year-old, who joined United from Ajax in 2022 for £85 million, has endured a mixed spell at Old Trafford, struggling with consistency but occasionally producing flashes of brilliance. United had initially been reluctant to sell, but with the arrival of new attacking signings and pressure to comply with the Premier League’s Profit and Sustainability Rules, the club decided to cash in.
Negotiations were wrapped up in under 72 hours after Chelsea made an unexpected approach earlier this week. Manager Enzo Maresca reportedly sees Antony as the “right-footed wildcard” to complement his youthful attacking setup.
Antony is expected to travel to London on Friday to undergo a medical at Cobham. If all goes to plan, he will sign a five-year contract with an option for a sixth. Chelsea insiders say the Brazilian will be handed the number 11 shirt, recently vacated by Noni Madueke’s shock loan move to AC Milan.
A source close to the player told London Blue Insider:
“Antony was excited by the idea of a fresh start and the opportunity to play in a more fluid attacking system. He also likes that Stamford Bridge is only a 2-hour train ride from the best Brazilian restaurants in London.”
United fans have had mixed reactions online, with some expressing frustration at losing a flair player, while others believe the club have made a smart financial decision. Chelsea supporters, meanwhile, are already debating how Antony’s trademark spins will fit into Maresca’s tactical setup — with one fan writing on X: “If he does that 360 spin at 0-0 in the 80th minute, I’m walking out.”
The deal is expected to be announced officially within the next 48 hours, making Antony Chelsea’s fourth signing of the summer window.